The time between pod formation and fruit ripening stretches up to 120 days. As a result, there is no fixed harvest time. Rather, tact and a good sense of proportion are required to harvest chili at the right time.

Color change signals readiness for harvest

Proper cultivation sets the color change on the pods in motion towards the end of summer. Depending on the variety, the chillies take on their original color from the top. This process only takes a few days.

A few varieties keep their green color or offer the highest degree of heat when green. Therefore, further criteria should determine the time of harvest.

  • the shell gradually contracts
  • the flesh yields slightly when pressure is applied
  • small, black spots appear

Avoid injury to fruit

Once the decision to start harvesting has been made, you have cleared the most important hurdle. Now it's time to separate the ripe chillies from the plant undamaged. Any damage to the shell will result in rot and pest infestation.

  • Never break pods
  • cut with a sharp knife or scissors
  • the point of intersection is midway between the stem and the plant

Discolouration does not mean that the quality is impaired

Chillies without discoloration are the exception rather than the rule. Often the formation of dark spots is part of pigment formation. Even completely black patches are not considered a symptom of fruit disease.

Such fruits are usually already edible. However, they are no longer suitable for drying. Especially if you want to preserve the harvest in a dehydrator or oven.

Harvesting and seed collection go hand in hand

The chili harvest is always accompanied by the question of propagation. Because with every fresh pod you have plenty of seed material in your hand for sowing. Only fully ripened chillies are suitable. The seeds of green pods are not germinable.

  • Halve the fruit with a knife
  • Scoop out the seeds with a teaspoon
  • Lay out on kitchen paper and let dry

During this work, protect yourself with gloves, respiratory protection and goggles. This is especially true when processing hot chili varieties.

tips and tricks

Anyone who harvests the chili peppers at the earliest possible time motivates the plant to produce regrowing fruit.

Category:

Vegetable garden