Spice up your life with green chilies!
Green chilli, also known as Capsicum annuum, is a popular vegetable used in Indian cuisine. It adds spice and flavor to many dishes and is a great addition to any kitchen garden. In this article, we will explore how to grow green chilli in an Indian kitchen garden.
| Characteristics | Description |
| Name | Green Chilli |
| Scientific name | Capsicum annuum |
| Nutrition | Green chilli is a rich source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants. It also has anti-inflammatory properties. |
| Months / season it’s grown | Green chilli can be grown throughout the year in India, but it is best to plant it during the summer months, from March to June. |
| Weeks it takes to grow | Green chilli takes around 8-12 weeks to grow, depending on the variety and growing conditions. |
| Harvest per plant in kgs | Each green chilli plant can yield around 0.5-1.5 kg of fruit, depending on the variety and growing conditions. |
You know how sometimes your food tastes like it’s missing something? And when you add a pinch of your favorite spice and suddenly, it tastes amazing? That’s what green chilies do. They’re a must-have in Indian cooking, giving everything from curries to daals that perfect kick.
But how did these little green firecrackers make their way into our hearts and kitchens? Let’s get into how they can jazz up your meals and make them go from “meh” to “wow”!
Fun fact!
Did you know green chilies are like chameleons? They start green but can change to yellow, orange, and even red as they get older. The color change comes with a change in heat and flavor, all hail to our friend capsaicin getting busier as the chili matures.
Health benefits
Green chilies are loaded with healthy nutrients that are good for your well-being. And let’s not forget capsaicin, which is great for your circulation and can help keep inflammation in check.
- Packed with vitamin C: Boosts your immune system, keeping you healthy and resilient.
- Lots of fiber: Ensures smooth digestion, preventing digestive issues.
- Iron boost: Elevates your energy levels, combating fatigue and tiredness.
- Fight Off Free Radicals: Antioxidants in green chilies protect against cellular damage.
The best thing about green chilies? They’re versatile. You can slice ’em, dice ’em, or just throw them whole into whatever you’re cooking. They’re great in everything from curries and dals to salsas and sauces.
Which season/months it can be grown in India
Green chilli can be grown throughout the year in India. However, it is best to plant it during the summer months, from March to June. This is because green chilli requires plenty of sunlight to grow and the summer months provide ample sunlight.
Soil conditions and temperature needed
Green chilli thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range for growing green chilli is between 6.0 to 7.0. The temperature range for growing green chilli is between 20-35°C. It is important to ensure that the soil is moist, but not waterlogged, as green chilli plants are susceptible to root rot.
Caring in different weeks
Week 1-2: After planting the green chilli seeds, keep the soil moist by watering it regularly. It is important to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged.
Week 3-4: As the green chilli plants start to grow, apply a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth. Also, remove any weeds that may be competing with the green chilli plants for nutrients.
Week 5-6: Once the green chilli plants have established themselves, pinch off the top of the plant to encourage branching. This will lead to more fruit production.
Week 7-8: As the green chilli plants continue to grow, ensure that they are well-watered and receive plenty of sunlight. If necessary, provide support to the plants by staking them.
Week 9-10: As the green chilli plants reach maturity, reduce watering to prepare the plants for harvest. Also, remove any dead leaves or stems to promote healthy growth.
Harvest time
Green chilli can be harvested after 50-60 days of planting. The best time to harvest green chilli is when the fruit is green and firm. To harvest, simply pluck the fruit off the plant.
Nutrition in the fruit
Green chilli is a rich source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
How much can one harvest from a small kitchen garden?
A small kitchen garden can yield around 1-2 kg of green chilli, depending on the size of the garden and the variety of green chilli grown.
Conclusion
Growing green chilli in an Indian kitchen garden is a great way to have a fresh supply of this versatile vegetable right at home. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can successfully grow green chilli and enjoy its many benefits.
