Weblog Vanilla in Madagascar

Vanilla Planifolia - Plan Physiology and Growth There are different types of photosynthesis; C3, C4 and CAM photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is all about the sun, and capturing that light energy from the sun. And when this happens we have a problem, because CO2 is noticed for photosynthesis and that gets in the stomata through the leaves. And when the stomata go open for the CO2 to go in, we often have a loss of water through transpiration. So, there are adaptations in the chemical reactions that occur. So, first the C3 photosynthesis. It is called this way because; the first compound they form is a 3-carbon molecule. The problem with C3 photosynthesis is that the plant takes up CO2 but is losing quite a lot of it. This all is because of this enzyme that also reacts with O2. This problem does not matter in mild conditions, where the stomata can stay open day in and out because water loss is then probably not a big issue. C4 plants on the other side are trapping CO2 a lot e...

Plant Anatomy and Morphology All flowering plants can be divided into one of the two categories; either a monocot or dicot plant. Vanilla Planifolia is a monocot. Vanilla has a root system that is both epiphytic (that grows on other living trees) and terrestrial (grows on or in or from land). So the term bemiepiphytes is applied to them. So, the seeds germinate in the soil, and the fine root hairs penetrate in the rich soil while obtaining essential nutrients. These roots are the feeding roots of the Vanilla plant. After germination, the young vines start climbing. New roots are produced with different forms and functions. They vary in length per species. The Aerial roots length of V.planifolia can grow up to 50 cm long. After many years of climbing upwards, you can call the vines epiphytes. Vanilla Planifolia is a monocot so, that means a Fibrous root system. Each vanilla flower stays open for 24 hours. In these 24 hours, it needs to be pollinated. You can use natural polli...

Vanilla planifolia, flower VANILLA PLANIFOLIA   In a remote corner at the edge of the Indian ocean lies Madagascar, one of the top producing countries of Vanilla. Vanilla Orchid Pods are used to produce vanilla, a flavouring spice which can be used in cakes, cookies and ice cream. Or it’s used in perfumery or medicines. Vanilla is a member of the orchid family. The orchid family consist of some 25,000-different species. Vanilla is native of South and Central America and the Caribbean. The First people that cultivated Vanilla were the Totonacs of Mexico´s east coast. Mexico exported the delicate flavours of vanilla to all the corners of the world. They were the leading vanilla supplier in the world, until the 19th century. Mexican producers have been unalbe to reclaim their position as leading vanilla supplier. Right now, the African and Asian countries have claimed the title in the global vanilla market (including Madagascar).  The Taxo...