Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and method for drying anthers and separating pollen contained therein. The apparatus comprises a chamber for holding pollen bearing anthers, which has an inlet for air and an outlet from the chamber. The outlet is spaced apart from the inlet and allows for air to be drawn or passed through the inlet and to pass through the chamber to exit from the outlet. The apparatus is characterized in that air issuing from the inlet passes through means having a plurality of openings therein, said openings each being disposed at an angle to the direction of incoming air, such that the air issuing through the opening and into the chamber has a substantially twisting motion. The method comprises the steps of placing pollen bearing anthers into a chamber, and passing a twisting stream of air through said chamber, such as to disturb the anthers and release pollen therefrom.