In the wild, vanilla vines can grow up to 30 metres in length when left unmanaged. However, optimal growth and production in a commercial farm requires controlled pruning and training.
Timing: Prune vines at least once a year (ideally twice) once at the end of the Southern Hemisphere wet season (March-April) and again before flowering (which, in the Southern Hemisohere is August-September)
Technique: Use sharp, sterilised secateurs to cut excessive vine growth, ensuring air circulation and light penetration
Encouraging Flowering: Tip pruning after the wet season (April-May) and looping the vines over support structures encourages stress, which triggers flowering. Avoid cutting the vine where flower buds are forming
Removing Weak or Dead Vines/leaves: Cut away yellowing or damaged sections to direct nutrients toward healthy growth. Completely remove any diseased sections from the shadehouse