Re: Questions on pollination of chestnut trees: --from Insect Pollination of Cultivated Crop Plants by S. E. McGregor, USDA handbook #496, 1976 Chestnuts were formerly considered to be wind pollinated, but a study in 1972 by J. W. McKay questioned this. > "He indicated that honey bees, rose chafers, and wild bees are highly beneficial to chestnut in the transfer of pollen, and they frequently visit the staminate flowers in large numbers. He also considered that for highest production on younger trees, a high population of pollinators is especially needed. If production of newer cultivars and hybrids expands, the value of insects in cross-pollination for maximum set should be more fully explored." > "There are no recommendations on the use of pollinating insects on chestnut although evidence shows they are needed." Note: McGregor compiled much of the research data available up to 1976, and we owe him a great debt. Now an update of the manual is badly needed. With the passing of two decades of increasing monoculture, clearcut logging, pesticide misuse, parasitic mites, and beekeepers quitting, the pollination picture has greatly changed. [log in to unmask] Dave Green