When it comes to picking peppers off your ornamental pepper plant, there are a few factors to consider. First, let’s talk about harvesting the peppers for fresh use. It’s best to wait until the peppers begin to ripen for different color effects. This means you can pick them at different stages to enjoy a variety of colors in your harvest.
To determine if a pepper is ready to be picked, look for signs of ripeness. The peppers should have started to change color from green to their specific hue, whether it be red, orange, yellow, or even purple. Typically, the peppers will be firm to the touch and have a glossy appearance when they are fully ripe. If you gently squeeze the pepper and it feels soft or mushy, it may be overripe.
When harvesting for fresh use, it’s important to handle the peppers with care to avoid damaging the plant or the peppers themselves. Using a sharp pair of scissors or garden shears, cut the pepper off the stem, leaving a small portion of the stem attached. This will help prolong the shelf life of the pepper.
Now, let’s discuss harvesting the peppers for drying purposes. Drying peppers can be a great way to preserve them for future use in cooking or for ornamental purposes. For drying, it’s best to wait until at least 90% of the peppers on the stem have turned red. If you have orange peppers, they will continue to ripen and turn red even after being picked.
To dry the peppers, you can simply hang them upside down by their stems in a well-ventilated area. This can be done indoors or outdoors, as long as the peppers are protected from direct sunlight and moisture. You can use a string or twine to create a drying line and hang the peppers evenly spaced apart. It’s important to strip the foliage from the stems before drying to prevent any mold or rot from occurring.
Once the peppers are fully dried, they can be stored in airtight containers or ground into powder for use in cooking. Dried peppers can add a wonderful depth of flavor and a bit of heat to various dishes.
Whether you are picking peppers for fresh use or drying purposes, it’s important to wait until they have reached the appropriate stage of ripeness. Harvesting peppers when they are fully mature will ensure the best flavor and quality. Remember to handle the peppers with care and strip the foliage before drying for optimal results. Enjoy the vibrant colors and delicious flavors of your ornamental pepper harvest!
