Vanilla beans originated from the orchid flowers – this journey from flower to spice is long and intricate. Originally came from Mexico, the vanilla orchid is relying on the pollination process which can be either two options: bee pollination and hand pollination. Let’s have a look at how these two methods may be impacting the end product.
The Role of the Melipona Bee
In its native habitat of Mexico, the Vanilla Orchid is naturally pollinated by the Melipona bee. This bee is uniquely adapted to access the difficult-to-reach pollen of the vanilla orchids. The orchids are hermaphroditic, containing both male and female parts, but a specific tissue called the rostellum actually prevents self-pollination. The Melipona bee’s ability to go through this barrier is very important. However, this natural pollination process is limited to Mexico, which means in other popular countries for vanilla – it requires alternative methods.
Hand Pollination
As the spice cultivation spread to other countries like Tahiti, Hawaii, Indonesia, Madagascar, and Papua New Guinea, the absence of the Melipona bee presents the others with a challenge. By not having the natural pollinators or the bees, the vanilla orchid’s life is at risk. Due to this, people have adapted to the hand pollination techniques which were invented by Edmond Albuis in the mid-1800s.
Trust the Process
Hand pollination of vanilla plants is meticulous, usually conducted between October and January. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the process:
- Pick out a toothpick or similar tools
- Carefully tear open the flower to expose the reproductive parts.
- Identify the flap and the pollen in the male part of the flower.
- Use the tip of the toothpick to lift the flap gently and bring the male and female parts into contact.
- Within 2-3 weeks, if successful you will find a firm, greenish bean.
Timing is Key
The vanilla orchid only blooms once a year and for just a few hours. Pollination must occur within the first few hours of the flower opening to be successful.
Difference Between Hand and Bee Pollination
While both methods are aiming to achieve the same result, they differ significantly in execution and labor intensity. Bee pollination fully relies on the nature of the Melipona bee. In contrast, hand pollination is human-driven, which requires effort and attention to detail. Despite the differences, both methods produce vanilla beans with the same flavor profile, though hand pollination is more labor-intensive and time-sensitive.