The Effects of Maternal and Paternal Nutrient Status on Pollen Performance in the Wildflower Clarkia Unguiculata Lindley (Onagraceae)1

Abstract

This study examined the effects of nutrient addition on pollen performance (pollen germination, pollen tube growth, and siring success) in the wildflower Clarkia unguiculata. Chamber-grown plants were watered with either a full strength commercial fertilizer (20% nitrogen, 20% phosphorus, 20% potassium) or with distilled water. Pollen performance was assessed in crosses between plants watered with nutrient solution and plants watered with distilled water. The nutritional status of the pollen donor did not affect percent germination or pollen tube growth. However, the nutritional status of the pollen recipient did significantly affect pollen germination and pollen tube growth rates. Pollen from both donor types grew significantly faster through the styles of plants watered with distilled water. Siring success, as measured by seed production, did not differ significantly between any of the treatments.