Self-pollination

The tomato is a self-pollinating plant, which means that most of its flowers are pollinated by their own pollen. As a result, a second variety is usually not needed to produce fruit. Nevertheless, insects—especially bumblebees—and vibrations caused by the wind significantly improve pollination efficiency. In some varieties with elongated pistils, the risk of cross-pollination is higher. In a tunnel with no air movement, it is advisable to ventilate regularly and gently shake the open clusters.