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Management for growth

After planting, it will take 18 – 24 months for the Vanilla to mature. During this period it is very important to manage the Vanilla plants to develop strong and healthy vines and a good structure. Good management at this stage will increase productivity and prolong the life of the vine.
Vanilla needs:

  • Correct shade levels (30 – 50% shade)
  • Light, well drained soil
  • High moisture
  • Good air circulation
  • Regular fertilisation

There are 5 major management activities:

  • Shade control
  • Fertilisation, through adding compost or farmyard manure.
  • Looping the vine through the mulch layer
  • Weeding
  • Pruning and de-suckering
  • Pest and Disease control

1. Shade control
Vanilla requires light shade. Reduce the sunshine by about one third or one half. Mature bananas planted at 5 x 5 m spacing gives about 30 – 50% shading

  • Too much shade will slow growth and increase pest and disease problems.
  • Too little shade gives sunburn of the leaves (yellowing).
  • To stimulate flowering reduce the shade (see section E – of the document)

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