Plants grow from seeds, which contain the genetic blueprint for a new organism. Seeds require the right conditions—water, soil, and sunlight—to germinate. As they develop, plants produce oxygen, food, and habitats, sustaining life on Earth.
Vanilla (Vanilla planifolia) is a valuable spice plant known for producing natural vanillin, widely used in confectionery, perfumery, and pharmaceuticals. Originally from Mexico, it was introduced globally by Spanish explorers. Sri Lanka cultivates vanilla mainly in home gardens within the mid and low country wet zones, particularly in Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Matale, and Kegalle. It thrives in well-drained, fertile loamy soils at altitudes up to 1000m, requiring temperatures of 21-32°C and annual rainfall of 2000-2500mm. High-quality vanilla pods are 17-25cm long, dark brown to black, with a distinct vanilla aroma and 25-30% moisture content.
