Brassica cross-pollination

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wandoqebu May 26, 2026

I have a bed of different brassicas [at the time I thought 'keep them all together for easier pest control'] which overwintered - kale, sprouts, broccoli and cauliflower - and since they are all Brassica oleracea they would have likely cross-pollinated (idk if they flowered at the same time tho). Is it worth saving the seeds that are now forming to plant next year? I find brassicas tricky at the best of times, so am wondering if it's best to just start fresh with true variety seeds... what would you do? https://vidmate.bid/ https://speedtest.vet/

I got this,...


This message was edited May 30, 2026 2:08 AM

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melody Benton, KY(Zone 7a) May 27, 2026

Yes, you can have cross pollination with these brassicas if they bloomed at the same time. Pollen is most likely carried by bees, but even though it is heavier than some other pollens, a bit of wind distribution is also possible.

I'd start over next year with fresh seeds if you want to maintain purity. Plant the different varieties about 20 feet apart and a 'trap crop' in between to lure the bees helps as well...maybe squash or even flowers like zinnias will draw the bees in before they get to the brassica variety. The trap crop will brush the brassica pollen off.

Hope this helps

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