Substrate for Vanilla planifolia
I decided I wanted to get a “real” Vanilla in addition to my Vanilla chamissonis, so I got a variegated Vanilla planifolia. The cutting I received is somewhat underwhelming: one node/leaf and one well established root growing adhered to a piece of that florist’s foam that the cutting is pushed through.
My plan is to transition it to a pot with a tree fern stake for it to climb. I’ll be growing it indoors so humidity will be low but temperatures will probably range from low 70s to 90s. I read African violet mix is a good option, as is a bark peat moss mix, or sphagnum. My V. chamissonis is in small grade bark and is doing fine so far (this is what the grower had it potted in). Any recommendations for V. planifolia? I’d lean towards African violet or a straight bark mix if those are viable options.
I’ve also read conflicting recommendations on light: direct full sun, partial sun, bright indirect light... What does it really want? I’m doing bright indirect for now since that seems safest. Given its size, I don’t have a lot of room for error.
Even watering information is inconsistent: constantly moist, to allowing the upper 2-3 inches to dry, to allowing to fully dry. With my Vanilla chamissonis, I’m watering like my Oncidium types and Paphiopedilum: trying not to let it go completely dry and spraying the air roots regularly. Will the same work for V. planifolia?
I’m not invested in getting my Vanillas to flower. I got them more for the novelty factor and if I can keep them as healthy vines, I’ll be happy. I’m thinking along the lines of high maintenance pothos.
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