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The Wiri Wiri Pepper Plant: A Complete Guide and Care Tips
If you’re a fan of spicy food, you’ve got to try the wiri wiri pepper.
This tiny but mighty pepper packs a punch and is used in many Caribbean dishes.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the wiri wiri pepper plant and provide some tips on how to care for it.
What is the Wiri Wiri Pepper Plant?
The wiri wiri pepper plant (Capsicum chinense) is a type of hot chili pepper that is native to Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana.
The plant produces small peppers that are only about 0.5 inches in length but are incredibly hot.
On the Scoville scale which measures heat intensity of chillis , they score between 80,000 to 100,000 units.Despite its small size, the wiri wiri pepper has become very popular due to its unique flavor profile.
It has been described as having fruity notes with hints of sweetness.
How to Grow Wiri Wiri Peppers
If you’re interested in growing your own Wirri Wirri Peppers at home, here’s what you need:
- A sunny spot: These plants require full sun.
- Well-draining soil: The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilizer: Use a balanced fertilizer once every two weeks during growing season.
- Seeds or seedlings: You can buy seeds online or from local nurseries; however it might difficult outside Caribbean region.
Start by planting your seeds indoors in early spring or purchase seedlings directly if possible.
Once they have grown enough transfer them out side after last frost date.
The plant should be spaced about 18 inches apart.
How to Care for Wiri Wiri Peppers
Once your wiri wiri pepper plants are established, they require very little care.
- Watering: Water your plants regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: As mentioned above apply a balanced fertilizer once every two weeks during growing season.
- Pest control: Keep an eye out for pests and diseases such as spider mites or aphids which can affect pepper plants.
If spotted use insecticidal soap to control or get rid of them.
You can begin harvesting the peppers after about 90 days from planting.
However, you should wait until they turn red before picking them if you want maximum heat and flavour .
Once picked the peppers can be used fresh, dried or preserved in vinegar for future .
Conclusion
The wiri wiri pepper plant is a great addition to any garden due to its unique flavor profile and attractive appearance .
Although it may take some effort to find seeds or seedlings outside Caribbean region , growing it is relatively easy if provided with good sunlight and well-draining soil .
With proper care tips mentioned above , you’ll be able grow this hot pepper plant at home in no time!
