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Chillies are one of the essential ingredients in cooking. If you are a fan of spicy food, then indulging in eating chillies is a common practice. Food tastes bland without the inclusion of chillies which add a distinct heat and depth of flavour.
Chillies come in different shapes, sizes, and heat levels. Chillies can be used fresh, dried, or powdered, each having unique intensity and aroma. Besides, in many cultures, chillies are the staple and integral to dishes such as Indian curries, Mexican salsas, Thai sir-fries, and Chinese Sichuan cuisines. They enhance the overall taste of the dish and are rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
If you have access to a home garden, instead of buying chillies from the local market, you can grow chilli plants at home in your garden. It is a rewarding experience that brings a burst of flavour and colour to your garden. If you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice, you can follow these steps to successfully cultivate your chilli plant. Take a look:
- Choose The Right Seeds
First and foremost, you can grow chilli pants by selecting the right seeds. There are several varieties of chilli peppers, ranging from mild to extremely hot. Some of the types include Jalapeno, Cayenne, Habanero, and Bell Peppers. You have to decide on the type of chillies, depending on your preference of heat and flavour. Make sure to buy high-quality seeds from a reputable supplier to increase the chances of satisfying germination.
- Prepare The Soil And Containers
Chilli plants thrive best in the well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. You can use a mix of garden soil, compost, and sand to create the base for the ideal growing of chilli plant. You must ensure the containers have good drainage holes if you're growing your plants in pots. For starting seeds, use seed trays or small pots. The containers must be filled with the prepared soil mix, leaving about an inch from the top.
- Plant The Seeds
It is advisable to plant your seeds about ¼ inch deep in the soil. If you’re using seed trays, plant one seed per cell. Water the plant lightly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Cover the containers with plastic wrap or a clean lid to create a mini-greenhouse effect that helps to retain moisture and warmth. For optimal germination, place the container in a warm, sunny spot. Seeds usually sprout within 1-2 weeks.
- Provide Adequate Light And Water
After the seedlings emerge, remove the plastic cover and make sure the plant receives plenty of light. The chilli plant needs to be under 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. If the natural light is insufficient, consider using grow lights. Water the plants regularly for consistent moistness of the soil. Overwatering can lead to rotting of the root.
- Transplant And Care For Mature Plants
When a few sets of true leaves have developed and are about 4-6 inches tall after the seedling process, they are ready to be transplanted to larger pots or directly into the garden. Place the plants about 18-24 inches apart to allow them to grow. Continue to provide them with adequate sunlight and water. You can fertilise the plants every 2-3 weeks for healthy growth and fruitful production.
