Hi just wondering if anyone knows whether plants of the Turbinicarpus genus are self polinating.

Welcome cactusjack! In answer to your question. I was told they were but I tried self pollinating my T. schwarzii a couple of times this season, no sign of fruits at this point.

So I guess that really isn't a very affirmative answer lol

I have been growing Turbinicarpi for a few years and have not had seed without cross pollination, however a few weeks ago my Turbinicarpus lophophoroides had the remains of a broken seed pod and seed all over the plant in the wool, so was wondering if the insects had been to work or if the seed was straight lophophoroides

Guess will have to sow the seed and see what comes of it..

Anyone else know for certain?

From the reading that I have done the flowers are NOT normally bisexual, but can occaisionally be so. Interestingly, a study into their germination rates also indicates that they are more viable at 4 years old, than at one year old (eg, after the seed has been left for that long before being planted.) It's all to do with a chemical in the seed that breaks down over time.

Here's the link that mentions their bisexuality.
http://zipcodezoo.com/Plants/T/Turbinicarpus_lophophoroides.asp

I for one would enjoy having 3 plants that I could then propagate from.

cheers,
Calycium

Oh,
and the study about germination qualities.
http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/bsc/psb/2008/00000023/00000001/art00007;jsessionid=dk6zncg37d92.alexandra?format=print

Here is a link to the lophophoroides page in the book:

Knowing, understanding, growing TURBINICARPUS - RAPICACTUS
fantastic book by the way, if you are interested in this genus its well worth the money.

http://www.rainbowgardensbookshop.com/Lophophoroides_inglese%20-%20sample%20from%20book.pdf


Thanks for your links by the way checking them out now.