I was wondering if it might be more successful mid-morning in Britain as the pollen can stay damp for quite some time here, will try at different times with the same cultivars and see if it makes any difference.
I was told that once pollen is wet, it is no good...even if it dries out later in the day. I think if you have frequent rainy periods, the freezing method described might work nicely for you because you can wait and use the frozen pollen once the flowers have dried. I have also read of those who will go out very early and collect the anthers before they open and the pollen is exposed to the wet on rainy days, they bring the anthers inside and let them open at room temp and get good, fluffy, useable pollen for later in the day when the rain stops or for the next couple of days. Pollen should stay viable at room temperature for a few days...one person said they have used it with some success for up to two weeks!
