Hand-Pollinating High-Rise Balcony Tomatoes and Peppers

On a 9th-floor balcony, bees are scarce. Hand-pollination ensures fruit set.

Simple Technique

1. When flowers open, use a small brush or cotton swab.
2. Gently transfer pollen from stamens to pistil within each flower (tomatoes, peppers are self-fertile).
3. Repeat daily during bloom.
4. Fruit should swell within 4 days.

Container Culture Tips

• 50/50 compost/potting mix.
• Full sun, consistent moisture.
• Organic fertilizer monthly.
• Plant nectar-rich flowers (marigold, alyssum) to attract any visiting pollinators.

Hand-pollination turns a low-yield balcony into a productive garden.