Apple trees species include the many varieties of trees from cultivated fruit orchard trees to the hundreds of varieties known as crab-apples. These tree grow in temperate regions of the United States and Canada and are a valuable cash crop requiring pollination by honey bees. Because of the variation in cultivars, the blooming season extends over two to three weeks in early spring. Crab-apples have even a greater blooming season and are found growing in fence rows, abandoned fields, and way sides.
Description of nectar
According to Lovell, "The honey from apple bloom is pale yellow, with an agreeable flavor, and granulates quickly. " It secretes nectar abundantly. However, honey bees usually use the pollen and nectar in brood raising and very little is saved for surplus.
Description of Apple Family
These plants are members of the Rosaceae family. They grow commonly from Zone 3 to Zone 5 but hardier varieties may be found outside this area. These plants are quite adaptable to varying soil conditions and are found growing in full sun.
Description of pollen grain
The pollen grain is yellow to tan in color.
Pollen grains of this family are oblong when viewed from the side and triangular when view from the top of a grain. Pores are quite evident. The photographs below were taken with a microscope set at 1000X and clearly shows both views.
