The insect that pollinates Vanilla planifolia is found in South America. I have to do it by hand, and it helps to do it before noon. The latest I have hand-pollenated a bloom successfully was about 2pm, but that is not recommended. The blooms only stay open 1 day. I can get the 'beans' without a problem, but my drying/curing efforts need some work. If too fast, it gets crispy and is unusable; if too slow, it gets moldy and is unusable. It should be about the consistency of beef jerky - mostly dry, but semi-pliable. Mine is blooming currently, but my d@mn work hours make me miss the blooms 4 days each week. Without pollenation, no pods, and no work on the drying technique. I grow them because they're different, and don't need any special care in this environment. Orchid-wise, they're downright ugly. Some of the leafless Vanilla is more attractive, and many have some red color in the lip.
