Abstract
The development and function of the pollination mechanism and the optimal time for pollination are described for Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis (Bong.) Carr.). After winter dormancy, the rudimentary integument overgrew the nucellus and formed two long micropylar arms. Soon after seed-cone buds burst, the epidermal cells on the micropylar arms secreted mucilage droplets to which pollen adhered. The ultrastructure of mucilage droplet secretion is described. After 6–8 days a pollination drop formed from the nucellus. This filled the space between the micropylar arms and picked up any pollen which adhered to the arms or landed on the pollination drop. The pollination drop was then withdrawn carrying pollen into the micropyle. The secretory cells on the micropylar arms then autolyzed and a large mucilage plug sealed the micropyle and filled the space between the withered micropylar arms. Conelets closed and became pendant. Pollen germinated and pollen tubes formed about 2 weeks after pollination ended. Conelets enclosed in pollination bags were open and receptive for about 10 days, but the optimal time for pollination was 6 to 8 days after cone buds burst. This coincided with the time of pollination-drop formation.
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