How does vanilla grow in a vanilla plantation?
Vanilla plants flourish in tropical and equatorial climates, where high humidity and warm temperatures are ideal. They grow best in environments with temperatures around 25°C and in soil that is rich in organic matter. Regularly adding and renewing a strong humus layer helps the plant grow easily.
Plant cuttings about 1.5 meters long are typically placed on stakes for support. In many plantations, live stakes, such as filao or candlewood trees, are used.
The first bloom of the vanilla plant
Vanilla plants usually begin to flower after about three years. During the blooming season, some shade may be removed to create thermal stress, which can help stimulate faster blooming. Similarly, a water stress at this time can cause earlier or more widespread flowering across the plantation.
Pollination of a vanilla flower
Pollinating a vanilla flower involves three main steps:
Support the flower by holding it gently with the left hand and placing a finger under the corolla (the flower’s center). Use a thorn from a lemon or orange tree to tear the labellum.
With the same thorn, carefully lift the rostellum (the part that separates the male and female organs) and move it beneath the anther (the male part).
Use your thumb to press the anther so it contacts the stigma.
These skilled workers can pollinate up to 1,500 vanilla flowers per day by facilitating the fertilization between the male and female parts.
Development of the vanilla bean
After about two months, the vanilla bean reaches its full size. It takes another 8 to 9 months for the bean to fully mature, although it still won’t have the vanilla flavor at that point.
The plant's roots absorb essential nutrients from the soil, ensuring healthy growth. Its adventitious roots help the plant anchor itself to the stake and draw moisture from its surroundings.
To prevent the vanilla plant from being exposed to direct sunlight, shade plants are grown throughout the plantation. In many vanilla farms, banana trees, coconut palms, and other exotic plants are used to create a balanced environment and support soil stability.
