Hi Friends,
I am back again with a new post on Chilli.
Another most important crop for your kitchen garden. Chilli is an integral part of everyday food and an important part of our diet. Available in more than 400 different varieties, different colours, shapes, sizes and even taste. Consumed all over the World as a spice. Its botanical name is Capsicum Annuum but commonly known as Hot Pepper, Bell Pepper, Sweet Pepper, Cayenne Pepper etc.
NUTRIENT VALUE
A good source of Vitamin C. Also stimulate blood circulation and boost
metabolism.
SEASON/
TEMPERATURE
Chilli is a warm season crop and a
heat loving pant. It requires good
amount of heat/ direct exposure of Sun.
If you live in a very hot zone then do take care of your plant as it may
get sunburnt.
PROPAGATION
Seeds
should be sown in seedling trays or small plastic containers. Water them thoroughly after sowing. They will take 7 -10 days to germinate. If your planning is to transplant the
seedling, do wait until the *true leaves come, which is a signal that your
plant is ready for transplanting.
*True
Leaves: the second pair of leaves which came after germination.
CONTAINER/ POT SIZE
Best is
to use one plant per pot/ container. Minimum
container size is 8” (W) x 10” (H). The pot
should have big drainage holes to help balance out the moisture level of the
soil. Drainage holes will allow excess water to leave the pot, minimizing the
risk of root rot.
SOIL
Chillies
grows best in well drained fertile soil with rich organic material. Soil should
be loosely placed into the containers.
Do not compress as chillies grow better in loose soil.
FERTILIZER
Best is
to use compost vermiculite or an organic fertilizer. A monthly dose of 15-15-15 organic fertilizer
containing nitrogen, phosphorous,
and potassium will do.
HARVESTING
They
will take around 70 – 90 days for harvest ready. Also depends upon the variety chosen. Use a cutter or a sharp knife to remove
chillies from the plant. Do not twist or
pull as this can damage the plant.
Bye for now. Will be back soon.
Look forward to your comments and suggestions, as always.
Happy container gardening.
