GROW YOUR OWN Chillies & capsicums

Capsicums and chillies originated in South and Central America. Capsicums are called bell peppers in the US and red, green or sweet peppers in the UK.

Chillies

There are many chilli varieties and they come in a wide range of colors, shapes, and flavors. They vary in heat from mild to burning hot, but one thing they have in common is their place in so many of the world’s cuisines.

Growing chillies

Chillies are related to capsicums and grow under the same conditions. Most develop into spreading sub-shrubs 1m or more tall and wide in a season. Chilies flower in spring and summer, and the chilies hang on the plants well into winter in mild climates. Frosts and very cold winds will destroy them. You may be able to prune them down to 15cm in autumn, while in cool and cold zones, you can protect them with straw or compost and manure over winter. If they survive an icy winter, they’ll sprout again as the warm weather commences. However, in areas with cold winters, it’s usually best to save some seeds and start plants anew in spring when frosts have finished.

Seeds and seedlings are available from nurseries. You can also collect seeds from varieties you have grown before and plant these.

Chilli oil

For chili-flavored oil, heat 12 small fresh chilies in peanut oil until warm but not hot. Remove from heat and steep at room temperature for 2 hours. Drain the oil into hot, sterilized bottles and seal while the bottle is still hot. Store chili oil at room temperature for up to 6 months or refrigerate.

Seeding fresh chillies