1.How do you grow and harvest ABE plants?

Step 1: Choose the right seeds.

When choosing seeds, look for those that are labeled as "hot" or "very hot." Bird's eye chilies come in a variety of colors, including red, orange, yellow, and green. Choose the color that you prefer.

If that option is not available, you should opt to buy them from a certified seed outlet.

In the case you want to check viability of the seeds soak them in water. The sinkers are good for planting and the floaters may not be up to standard.

Step 2: Prepare the soil.

Bird's eye chilies prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can amend your soil with compost or manure to improve its fertility and drainage. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 6.8.

Step 3: Sow the seeds.

Sow the seeds about 1/2 inch deep in the soil. Space the seeds about 6 inches apart. Water the seeds well and keep the soil moist until they germinate.

Alternatively make a seed bed one meter wide and any length you prefer. Make 1cm wide rills and spaced 10 cm at 10cm apart. Sow the seeds in the rills and sprinkle soil over them.

After germination thin seedlings 2-3cm and leave the rest to grow.

Step 4: Transplant the seedlings.

Once the seedlings have developed 4-6 leaves, they can be transplanted to their final location. Space the plants about 18 inches apart.

For mono cropped ABE rows to be 1.5m apart

For inter cropped ABE rows to be 6m apart.

Step 5: Water and fertilize the plants.

Water the plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Fertilize the plants every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

Step 6: Control pests and diseases.

Bird's eye chilies are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including aphids, whiteflies, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Inspect the plants regularly and take steps to control any pests or diseases that you see.

Step 7: Harvest the peppers.

Bird's eye chilies are ready to harvest when they are fully ripe. The color of the peppers will vary depending on the variety. Red peppers are typically the ripest, but orange, yellow, and green peppers are also edible.

Harvesting is a tedious process in itself. The chili is small in size and very pungent to the harvester, so it requires adequate preparation to achieve on time harvests. Late harvesting leads the chili to overripe affecting its quality.

Step 8: Save the seeds.

If you want to save seeds for planting next year, allow a few peppers to ripen on the plant until they are completely dry. Remove the seeds from the peppers and store them in a cool, dry place.

Tips for getting maximum yield:

• Plant bird's eye chilies in full sun.
• Water the plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
• Fertilize the plants every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
• Inspect the plants regularly for pests and diseases and take steps to control them.
• Harvest the peppers when they are fully ripe.
• Save seeds from the peppers for planting next year.

With proper care, bird's eye chilies can produce a bountiful harvest for you to enjoy.

#Grow your health, Grow a garden.

P.S. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. I'd love to hear from you.

Next time Inshallah I'll take us through Why we need ABE in our daily lives.

By Elvis Kirwa 24th July 2023.