How to grow Chili Cayenne

How to grow

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Background

The coriander plant, also known as cilantro or Chinese parsley, can trace its origins back to the Mediterranean and Southwestern Asia. The ancient Egyptians cultivated coriander for medicinal and culinary purposes as early as 5000 BC.

Did you know that coriander was found in the tomb of tutankhamen?

Its use then spread to the Greeks and Romans, who cherished it for its aromatic properties. The Romans used it to flavour bread, it even gets a run in the bible!

Its name comes from the Greek word koris, meaning a stink bug. This is likely a reference to the strong aroma given off by the coriander plant leaves when they are bruised.

Coriander made its way to the Indian subcontinent around 3000 BC, where it became a staple in Ayurvedic medicine and an essential spice in Indian cuisine. Later, it travelled to East Asia, where it remains popular to this day.

Health Benefits

Homegrown, organic coriander is good for you!

Coriander isn’t just packed with flavour, it’s packed with nutrition!

It is rich in antioxidants, vitamins (A, C, K), and minerals (iron, potassium). Consuming coriander may aid digestion, reduce inflammation, and support heart health. It also possesses antimicrobial properties and may help boost the immune system. Coriander may also promote healthy skin and improve brain function.

Growing Tips and Tricks

Location:

Choose a sunny spot: Chillies thrive in full sunlight, so select a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Warm and protected: They prefer warm temperatures, ideally between 20°C to 30°C. Plant them in a sheltered area to shield them from strong winds.

Watering:

Maintain consistent moisture: Chillies require regular watering, especially during dry periods. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Avoid overwatering: Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Common Problems:

Pests: Watch for common pests such as aphids, spider mites, and thrips. Use natural remedies or insecticidal soap to control infestations.

Diseases: Chillies can be susceptible to diseases like powdery mildew and bacterial spot. Practice crop rotation and avoid overhead watering to prevent these issues.

Patch to plate

One of the great vegetable ingredients, chilli lovers around the world can’t imagine life without these punchy, delicious little fruits. Rather than being the star of dishes in its own right, chilli is as essential as a condiment as salt and pepper. Here’s some inspiration to prepare it to get your taste buds firing!

• Homemade chilli sauce
• Pickled chillies
• Homemade dried chilli
• Chilli Jam