Intensive Cultivation of Vanilla in Uganda¹

Abstract Two field experiments were designed and implemented to determine the needs of vanilla ( Vanilla planifolia Andrews) plants for shade, mulch, fertilizer, irrigation, and pesticides under intensive culture in Uganda. The area under experimentation in Uganda was found to be marginal in rainfall for the culture of vanilla. It is therefore necessary to irrigate during the dry periods of the year to avoid root rot, tip dieback, and loss of vines, as well as to have adequate growth of vines. A light canopy furnished by the support trees should filter about 50% of the sunlight. Mulch is best grown adjacent to the plantings. Neither pesticides nor fertilizers affected the factors measured significantly. Tip dieback can be avoided by maintaining the proper growing conditions of moisture, shade, and mulch.