Ornamental peppers (Capsicum annuum) are small bushy plants with bright glossy peppers. Originally from our continent of South America they are grown mainly for their brightly coloured peppers and are related to the peppers we use in cooking.
Ornamental peppers are very hot (fiery) and some people just grow them as decorative plants rather than for use in the kitchen. In this country, where people tend to like their food hot, they could be used in cooking. If you like the fiery taste, therefore, this is a must for you.
These glossy peppers are yellow or green at first and as they ripen they turn red, orange, gold, purple and black, hence the common name the ‘seven colour peppers.’ They vary in size from round to long and narrow. These plants usually grow to approximately 1 ft in size. You can buy them as seedlings or you can grow your own from seed.
Sow seeds in a mixture of Pro Mix and some clean white sand. Germination takes place within two weeks.
Transplant young plants into small pots. After four weeks pot them into medium size (six-inch) pots. Place plants outdoors, since they like plenty of sun and water. Fertilize every 7 to 14 days with All Purpose Miracle Gro.
Soon the seven colours will amaze you.
They make an ideal Easter or Christmas gift.
Until next week, Happy Gardening!
