Chili peppers are not only a delicious dish on the dining table but also a favorite of gardening enthusiasts. Ornamental chili peppers have become a new favorite in the gardening market in recent years due to their colorful and diverse shapes. This article will introduce in detail the planting methods of ornamental chili peppers, helping you to easily create a colorful chili garden at home.
Choose varietyBefore planting ornamental chili peppers, it is first necessary to choose a suitable variety based on personal preferences and the growing environment. Common ornamental chili pepper varieties on the market include:五彩椒 (colorful peppers), 辣椒树 (chili tree), 樱桃椒 (cherry peppers), etc. These varieties have their own characteristics in terms of color, shape, and size, and can be chosen according to personal preference.
Soil selectionOrnamental chili peppers are not picky about soil, but they prefer loose and well-drained sandy soil. Before planting, it is recommended to deeply turn and fertilize the soil to increase its fertility. Note to avoid using consecutive cropping land to prevent the occurrence of diseases and pests.
Sowing timeThe sowing time for ornamental chili peppers is generally in spring, with the specific time depending on the local climate. Generally, when the temperature stabilizes above 15℃, you can start sowing. Before sowing, soak the seeds in warm water to help improve the germination rate.
Sowing methodWhen sowing, evenly spread the processed seeds on the soil surface and cover them with about 1 centimeter of soil. After sowing, keep the soil moist, and the seeds will usually germinate in 5-7 days. When the seedlings have 2-3 true leaves, thin them out, retaining the strong seedlings.
Maintenance management1. Water management: Ornamental chili peppers require a higher demand for water. During the growing period, keep the soil moist. In the hot and rainy summer, pay attention to drainage and prevent waterlogging; in the cold and dry winter, you can reduce the frequency of watering appropriately.
2. Fertilization: Ornamental chili peppers like fertilizer. During the growing period, apply a compound fertilizer every 15 days to promote plant growth. During the flowering and fruiting period, you can increase the application of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers to improve fruit quality.
3. Pruning: To make the plants grow vigorously, pruning can be done as needed. Remove sick, weak, dense, and crossed branches to maintain good ventilation and light for the plants.
4. Pest and disease control: Ornamental chili peppers are susceptible to pest and disease attacks, such as aphids and red spiders. When pests and diseases are found, take timely control measures, such as spraying pesticides and removing diseased leaves.
HarvestFrom sowing to harvest, ornamental chili peppers usually take 60-90 days. When the fruits turn from green to red, yellow, purple, and other colors, they can be harvested. It is best to choose a sunny day for harvesting to extend the shelf life of the fruits.
The planting process of ornamental chili peppers is not complicated. By mastering key links such as sowing and maintenance, you can harvest a beautiful chili garden. I hope this article can provide useful references for your planting journey.