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Vanilla- The Plant

Botany
There are two vanilla types;

  • Vanilla Fragrens Var Planiflora – this type is the subject of this manual.
  • Vanilla Tahitensis (Tahitian Vanilla), it is rarely found outside the pacific region. It has narrower leaves, the pods have a lower vanillin content.

For V. fragrens, the source of biodiversity is thought to be the isthmus of central America (Guatamala and South Eastern Mexico.
Ecology Vanilla is a vine. It roots in the surface of the soil and climbs up a support or tree. It likes shade; forested areas are suitable. It is a perennial plant, which will grow for many years and can become very long. For Vanilla, the optimum temperature ranges from 21ºC – 32ºC, with an average 27ºC. Rainfall must be evenly distributed ranging from 2,000 – 2,500 mm/year. Prolonged dry seasons, water logging and stagnant water must be avoided. Gently sloping land with a light friable soil is best.
Plant structure
The main parts of the plant are (Plate 1 & Plate 2):
The stem: at the end of the stem is the growing tip.
Leaves: Large leaves grow directly from the stem
Holders: At the join of each leaf with the stem, a small holder grows, and holds the vine to the support.

Buds:At the join of each stem and leaf is a bud. This bud can develop into either: a new growing shoot or a flowering shoot or new roots. How the bud develops depends on the management of the plant.

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