Vanilla Plant: Where to Buy and How to Grow

Vanilla is a popular flavoring ingredient that comes from the vanilla bean plant. The delicious and aromatic flavor it produces makes it a highly sought-after plant for cooking and even for natural remedies. Growing a vanilla plant is easy and economical when done right. If you're interested in purchasing your own vanilla plant, here we'll discuss some of the best options and tips for growing this wonderful plant.

Where to Buy a Vanilla Plant

The vanilla plant can be somewhat difficult to find, as it is native to tropical regions such as Madagascar and other parts of Africa. However, there are many online nurseries and plant stores that specialize in growing and selling vanilla plants. Here are a few of the best sources:

1. Hawaiian Vanilla Company

The Hawaiian Vanilla Company is the oldest commercial vanilla farm in the United States. They offer both retail and wholesale options for vanilla plants, as well as seeds and pods for those interested in growing their own.

2. Miller Nurseries

Miller Nurseries is a family-owned business located in upstate New York. They offer a variety of fruit trees and other plants, including vanilla plants. They also offer a one-year guarantee on their plants, giving you peace of mind when making your purchase.

3. Logee's Greenhouses

Logee's Greenhouses is a plant store located in Connecticut that specializes in rare and unusual plants. They offer vanilla plants, as well as other rare plants for those looking to grow something unique in their garden.

How to Grow a Vanilla Plant

When it comes to growing a vanilla plant, there are a few things to keep in mind in order to ensure its success. Here are some tips for growing a healthy vanilla plant:

1. Warm Temperature

Vanilla plants thrive in warm, tropical climates. If growing indoors, keep the plant in a warm room with a temperature between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. If growing outdoors, make sure the plant is in a warm, sunny spot.

2. Humidity

Vanilla plants need humidity to thrive. You can increase the humidity around the plant by misting it with water, placing a humidifier in the room, or setting the plant on a tray of pebbles filled with water.

3. Fertilizer

Vanilla plants need regular fertilizer to grow healthy and strong. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season, and once a month during the winter months.

4. Support

Vanilla plants grow as vines and need support to climb. You can support the plant using a trellis, stake or other climbing structure.

5. Pruning

Prune your vanilla plant regularly to keep it healthy and prevent it from becoming too overgrown. Remove any dead or damaged leaves or other plant matter to encourage new growth.

Overall, growing a vanilla plant is a fun and rewarding experience. With the right care and attention, your vanilla plant will grow strong and produce deliciously aromatic pods for years to come.