Question
I am wondering about pollenation of indoor vegetable plants. Do I have to play the part of the bee and tickle each blossom of the tomato plant with my index finger, spreading the joy from blossom to blossom? Sounds kindy weird and kinky, but is that what I have to do to get the blossoms to bear fruit? I have no plans on harboring a beehive in the upstairs room that I've given these plants. I also have cucumbers and marigolds growing. This is the first time I've ever tried growing stuff inside. I live in Phoenix and the plants are in pots on a large dresser that is pushed up against a large south facing window. Thanks,  Scot www.zianet.com/treehouse/garden.html

Answer
Yes, it is kind of kinky/weird. But, if you want those babies. . .fruit, you need to do the job required. the information I am about to give will be even more weird. You will probably want a cigarette, or something after.
The main thing is to make sure the pollen doesn't escape into the air. It needs to land on a blossom to work. I put a large plastic bag over the plant, then shake it very hard, then shake the bag as I remove it. Make sure the plant is dry, and there is no wind to blow the pollen off.
(You should have a fan for air circulation near your plants, but not blowing on the plants. Turn it off during this procedure)
The following is information I found from greenhouse experts, using the method they use to pollinate greenhouse tomatoes.
Pollination
The hand-held electric vibrator is the most widely used and efficient means of pollination. All other forms of
pollination should be considered supplemental.
Research indicates that relative humidities of 70% are optimal for good pollination and fruit set. Pollen
does not shed at humidity levels of 90% or higher.
Pollinating each cluster every other day is generally adequate under proper conditions. Less pollen is
produced during cloudy days and thus better pollination is required at these times to ensure good fruit set.

I looked at the pictures on your zianet site. Nice job. I hope you have a good harvest this winter. Remember, if it doesn't work well this year, try again next year. If it does work well, remember what you did.

bakerplanter