Their creamy yellow flowers grow in dense clusters and exude a seductive scent. As if that weren't enough, the vanilla orchid gives us tempting vanilla pods filled with the 'nectar of the gods'. Find out how to properly care for this gift from Mother Nature here.
How do you properly care for a vanilla orchid?
Caring for a vanilla orchid includes balanced watering with lime-free water, fertilizing with special orchid fertilizer, occasional spraying of the leaves and, if necessary, cutting back the shoots. Avoid waterlogging and pay attention to light and temperature conditions.
How should you water the vanilla orchid correctly?
One of the main pillars in the professional care of vanilla is a well-balanced water balance. Since the orchid can store moisture in its strong leaves, it can cope with short-term drought much better than waterlogging. How to water the magical houseplant correctly:
- At any time of the year, only water when the substrate has dried to a depth of 2-3 cm on the surface
- Always use lime-free, room temperature water
- Spray the leaves several times a week
Adjust the frequency of watering to the current light and temperature conditions. On warm summer days, the vanilla orchid thirsts more often than during the low-light, cool winter time.
Does fertilization count as part of the care program?
The vanilla orchid not only stores water but also nutrients in its fleshy leaves. To avoid over-fertilization, please apply special orchid fertilizer at half the concentration. Common commercial flower fertilizers contain too high a s alt concentration for the sensitive roots. From March to September, add the liquid fertilizer to lime-free irrigation water. From October to February, stop nutrient intake.
Is pruning necessary?
Given its leisurely growth, you will be happy to notice every additional centimeter of growth on your vanilla orchid. A first pruning will therefore only be considered after a few years. As tendrils become longer, you simply guide them up using a suitable climbing aid. If the orchid is outgrowing you, cut the shoots back to the desired length in early spring.
Tip
Is the stress of everyday life getting on your stomach? Then cut 5 home-grown vanilla pods open on the side and place them in 500 ml of brandy, rum or vodka for 4 weeks. The next time your stomach rebels, add a few drops of vanilla extract to tea, fruit juice or mineral water and be surprised by the positive effects.
