Find out how to grow vanilla bean orchids to enjoy their gorgeous blooms and edible pods.
Vanilla is the seedpod of a particulartype of orchidnative to Central and South America.
Where to Plant Vanilla Bean Orchids
Vanilla bean orchids can be grown outdoors inZones 1011.
Credit:Raquel Lonas / Getty Images
In cooler areas, these tropical beauties are primarily grown in greenhouses.
Outdoor plants can be grown under trees orprotective awningsthat cast some light shade over the orchids delicate leaves.
Indoor plants do best in thebright, indirect lightof east- or west-facing windows orunder grow lights.
Choose awell-draining pot1012 inches in diameter and fill it halfway with an orchid mix.
For best results, place indoor vanilla bean orchids in a window that receives bright, indirect light.
If youre using a grow light, keep the light on for 1214 hours daily.
These plants dont handle chills well, so they should be sheltered from drafts.
Like most other orchids, vanilla bean orchids crave moist air and 7080 percent humidity.
Fertilizer
The right fertilizer can support the health of plants and encourage flowering.
Vanilla bean orchids grow best when fertilized regularly during the growing season with a diluted,liquid organic fertilizer.
As dosage rates vary among products, follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging.
To achieve the characteristic vanilla flavor, pods must be cured before use.
Mealybugsare small, sap-sucking insects that look like fluffy bits of cotton on plant leaves and stems.
Repeat this treatment in 7- to 10-day intervals until all signs of infestation have disappeared.
Its much easier topropagate the orchid from stem cuttings.
This fast-growing vine is perfect for homeowners and produces the same vanilla beans as the solid-green-leavedVanilla planifolia.
Handa
Vanilla planifoliaHanda is a new variety of vanilla bean orchid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Growing vanilla bean orchids isnt recommended for beginning gardeners.
Ideally, the home grower should be an experienced gardener who has grown other orchids.
Place the wrapped beans in a sealed container and warm location for a few weeks.
Vanilla bean orchids only flower when theyre fully mature and at least two to three years old.
Fertilizing regularly with a diluted liquid organic fertilizer can also help.
