permaculture

[Norris Thomlinson <norristh@gmail.com>]

Does anyone know whether a seedling of a self-fertilized plant will
generate a plant genetically different enough to give the benefits of
cross-pollination?

Specifically, I have a mature "Sweet Scarlet" goumi (Elaeagnus
multiflora) which is very well self-fertile, but is supposed to do
better with a partner for pollination.  I started three seedlings from
saved seed, with surprisingly low germination rate compared to the
Autumn Olives I started--are the self-pollinated seeds less viable?

If I plant one of the seedlings, will it improve the fruit-set of the
original mother plant?

Thanks for any information anyone can share!

Norris Thomlinson