Propagation & Nursery Management

• Coconut Fibre (Coir) or a potting mix with peat is ideal for vanilla propagation

• Ensure several nodes are planted into growing media, and if the plant stock has been recently cut, leave the bottom (cut) end of the vine exposed to prevent root rot during propagation

• Cuttings should be kept in shade for 2-3 weeks before planting or directly into a shadehouse which has suitable shade cover.

• Most importantly, try maintain a high humidity (80%+) to encourage rooting. Best with overhead misting irrigation, or suitable micro sprayers as alternatives

• Regularly mist with the plants with timed irrigation to prevent dehydration throughout the day, ideally at least 4 times a day; 2 hour intervals at 10am, 12pm, 2pm and 4pm.

Successful vanilla propagation begins with careful management, however, healthy vanilla vines are quite durable and resilient. Planting directly into a suitably designed system is highly beneficial as it reduces labour and the risk of root damage in transition. Remember, our efforts as growers is to provide this epiphytic ( see Epiphytes) vine with rainforest-like conditions as close to natural habitat as possible, where it is most happy.