Hi,
there could also be a problem with the flowers not getting pollinated by the bees; if the female part of the flower does't receive the pollination necessary from the male part of the flower, you won't have any fruit; the flowers will just curl up and most likely just drop off. I've never pollinated flowers using a small artist paint brush, but it can be done; you might want to read up on this, or call your county agricultural extension agent. Bees are in short supply here ( North Carolina ) this year and you could try planting flowers nearby to further entice the bees to your planting area. This is just one possible solution, so check with your extension agent; they are always a good source of information and many have printed information they can give you as well. Good gardening, Mark Savage, certified master gardner % Savage Gardens
