West indian vanilla (Vanilla pompona)

West indian vanilla

West indian vanilla is a tropical orchid species prized for its fragrant, large vanilla bean pods, which are shorter and thicker compared to its more well-known cousin. With its distinctive climbing growth, it relies on tree hosts for support in humid rainforest environments. Its greenish-yellow flowers produce an aroma that entices specific pollinators, a key to its reproductive success.

Scientific classification

Species

West indian vanilla (Vanilla pompona)

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Vine, Herb

Plant Type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

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Care Guide for West indian vanilla

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: West indian vanilla prefers adequate moisture but can withstand some drought. Water weekly in summer and reduce to once every 10 days in fall and winter. Mist to maintain humidity, using neutral pH water stored beforehand to release dissolved CO2.

Fertilize: West indian vanilla requires minimal fertilizer. Use a nitrogen-rich fertilizer (N-P-K = 30-10-10) every 10 days post-sprouting in spring. Transition to a balanced fertilizer (N-P-K = 20-20-20) in early summer, and apply a phosphorus-rich fertilizer to encourage fall blooming.

Pruning: West indian vanilla thrives with careful pruning, ideally in early spring. Remove dead stems to improve airflow and prevent diseases, thinning dense areas while ensuring no more than a third of its growth is trimmed to avoid stress. This enhances overall health and bloom production.

Propagation: Propagation of west indian vanilla can be done by division or cuttings. For division, wait until after blooming, carefully dig up the plant, and separate roots into clusters. For cuttings, use healthy stems, remove leaves, and ensure moist substrate. Roots develop in 2-3 months.

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