Because vanilla bean orchids need carefully controlled conditions and a frost-free climate, a greenhouse is ideal.
It is challenging to coax this plant into flowering.
To produce the seeds from which vanilla is harvested, hand pollination is required.
The Spruce / Phoebe Cheong
Vanilla Bean Orchid Care
The vanilla orchid grows best in bright, filtered shade and high humidity.
Soil
Start your vanilla orchid in a mixture of equal parts orchid bark and potting mix.
This is slightly more dense and heavy than mostorchid growing media.
The Spruce /Phoebe Cheong
Mist your plant regularly and make every effort to keep the humidity level at 80 percent.
At the same time, good air circulation is required to prevent fungal rot.
Fertilizer
Fertilize your vanilla orchid every two weeks during the spring and summer withorchid fertilizer.
The Spruce /Phoebe Cheong
For the amount to use, follow the product label instructions.
Light, but consistent fertilization is recommended.
Pruning
Your vanilla bean orchid does not need to be pruned to bloom and produce seed pods.
The purpose of pruning is to trim the vine if it becomes too long.
Cuttings can be used for propagation.
Once the flowers appear, they need to be hand-pollinated within 12 hours.
remove pollen from the stamen of one flower and place it on the stigma of another flower.
Within a day, flowers that have pollinated will wither on the vine rather than fall off.
Good-quality pods should be at least six inches long.
However, propagated orchid stems can be potted in a mixture of equal parts orchid bark and potting mix.
Choose a pot that allows for drainage and airflow to the roots like one made from terracotta.
Treat mealybugs by dabbing them with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol.
This may also be seen with signs like dropping flowers, a wilted stem, or rotten roots.
Air circulation and proper drainage are key to prevent root rot from overtaking healthy plants.
Crispy, dry roots that begin to turn brown are an indicator that your plant is drying out.
If your plant’s leaves become scorched or crispy, it’s likely receiving too much light.
Move your orchid to a place with dappled shade.
Vanilla orchid is a rare houseplant, and is even more rare outdoors.
It has been classified as endangered.
Like other members of the Orchidaceae family, vanilla bean orchids are known for being difficult to grow.
Experienced gardeners should ideally have experience with raising orchids before growing a vanilla bean orchid.
Yes, vanilla orchids are named because their flowers smell like vanilla.
Their blooms also only last for one day, making this scent even more special.
Cameron, Kenneth Michael.Vanilla Orchids: Natural History and Cultivation.
Timber Press, 2012.
