Vanilla bean orchids grow best in shade, tolerating short periods of morning sun with indirect light. Avoid south- and west-facing windows to prevent harsh afternoon sun exposure.
Start your vanilla orchid in a mixture of equal parts orchid bark and potting mix for excellent drainage and nutrient supply. Once the vine develops epiphytic roots, it will no longer depend on the roots in the potting mix.
Keep both the growing medium and the wooden trellis structure damp to support the development of "air roots" that draw moisture from the air. Allow the potting mix to slightly dry between waterings to prevent root diseases
Ideal temperatures range between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit at night and 80 to 95 degrees during the day. Vanilla orchids require high humidity levels of around 80 percent. Good air circulation is crucial to prevent fungal rot.
Apply orchid fertilizer every two weeks during spring and summer, following product label instructions for the appropriate amount. Consistent, light fertilization is recommended for optimal growth.
While vanilla orchids can grow up to 10 feet long, they do not require pruning for pod production. However, you can trim them to manage space. Use clean, sharp gardening shears to trim below a growth node as needed.
Patience is key as vanilla orchids take three to five years to mature. Hand-pollinate flowers within 12 hours of blooming using a chopstick. Pollinated flowers will wither, and green pods will form within a week, ready for harvest in nine to 10 months.