Pepper planting and care by Liz Pepper Gardens
Narrated by Liz (audio file to be added)
An old image from the initial time of Pepper cultivation at Liz Pepper Gardens |
A gist on Pepper Planting and Care is given below
Preparing the Soil:
- Start by loosening the soil around the base of the tree you are planning to plant the pepper plant. For eg on teak or Mahagony like most of our community members do. We have also tried with Konna trees here. Prepare the soil with lime powder 15 days prior to planting. Add some compost to enrich the soil. After planting, avoid disturbing the roots. If adding manure later, only add excess soil with manure without disturbing the base.
Planting and Supporting the Plants:
- Plant two saplings near each tree for support as they grow. As the plants grow upward, tie them to the tree. Trim the top once they reach a certain height to encourage the development of side shoots, which aids in climbing and overall growth.
Watering and Maintenance:
- Keep the soil moist until the plants are well-established. Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot. Proper moisture levels are crucial for healthy growth, but once established, the plants do not need excessive watering.
Manuring for Faster Fruiting:
- Regularly add organic matter such as compost, bone meal, neem cake, and cow dung to promote healthier and quicker growth. Avoid disturbing the roots; instead, add excess soil with manure around the base.
Mulching During Hot Summers:
- During hot summers, create mulch using leaves from companion trees. Apply this mulch around the base of the pepper plants to retain moisture in the soil and regulate soil temperature, ensuring the roots remain moist while the plants get sufficient sun exposure.
Fruit Bearing:
- Fruiting depends on the care, manure, and maturity of the plant. It can take anywhere from a few months to a year for the plant to start bearing fruit. Once pepper cones start developing, every stem will bear them, and the yield improves as time passes.
Comments
Post a Comment