Does anyone know if vanilla orchids, which are the origin of genuine vanilla extract, are cultivated anywhere in Cambodia?

They started growing them in Vn abt 3 years ago, but not seen any here yet. They would do well.

Thanks Frank. From what little I've been able to read the pods are somewhat labor intensive since the insect that normally pollinates them isn't found here so they have to be hand pollinated. Plus the vine has to be bent to keep at collection height since they have a tendency to climb higher and higher.

yeah hand pollination is essential but not difficult. cacao would do well here as well and is pretty lucrative

Frank what tools are required for hand pollination? I've never done it nor known anyone who has.
Are the orchids monecious or diecious?

you need to plant some trees as trellis and leaf mulch. can't remember what sort- fast growing legume i think.
the rootlets feed off of mulch, the dont even penetrate the earth. i grew them in north qld as a curiosity, never pollinated them but i think there is a farm up the Daintree that does.
they are tough as boots and easily propagated, about the time your trees are ready you will have enough to plant and to sell to the many people who will clamor for them once they learn what is happening in Vietnam.
ship your cuttings in by DHL from these guys, looks to be a tissue culture lab, so best read up your orchid propagation.
http://kiri.com.my/product/vanilla-plan ... 7030716334
you are definitely on a winner with this, more good info here
https://www.facebook.com/groups/234281620238134/
funny coincidence i had cause to do a little research for a client in this very subject today.

bump for taabarang

Processed vanilla beans price per kg is 400$-500$

http://vanillaqueen.com/expensive-vanilla/

There is a Swiss guy in Thailand near Pataya who is growing vanilla and Cacao.