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Understanding how to grow peppers in Namibia is a skill that can be very rewarding and of high significance. Bell peppers are highly profitable vegetables in Namibia. About 4 to 5 bell peppers cost about N$ 23.00, this provides a great opportunity to make money from commercial farming of bell peppers in Namibia. In this post we will talk about how to grow peppers in Namibia for the purpose of selling and making money.
Step by step guide for how to grow peppers
Sowing method
Sow in Trays or Directly in Soil? Start pepper seeds in trays indoors and transplant seedlings outdoors once they have at least two sets of true leaves.
You can buy seedling trays in Windhoek at Agri-Grow
You can buy your pepper seedlings at most grocery stores in Namibia, but you can get them for a cheaper price at Agra.
Germination
Germination Period: Peppers have a germination period of about 7-14 days. In optimum conditions they may germinate quickly in about 6-8 days. Plant seeds in well-drained soil, ensuring sufficient sunlight.
Namibian Planting Calendar
A key part of mastering how to grow peppers in Namibia, is understanding what time of the year to plant and harvest peppers in Namibia. Pepper seedlings thrive really well during the warm season, and this is typically between September and December. Nonetheless, you can still plant your peppers in January and even until early February.
Watering Routine and Frequency
The main requirement is to keep the soil consistently moist, but also not drowning the plants in water as this can result in root rot. Normally you should water every 3 to 4 days, but keep in mind that in the northern parts of Namibia the temperatures can rise to significantly high number therefore adjusting based on weather conditions is needed, you can water every 2 days.
Drip irrigation is most preferred method of irrigation when the plants are grown and begin fruiting and growing of the peppers, this is because the peppers prefer little to zero moisture as this can cause them to rot from the inside out.
Trellising
Trellising is a key in mastering how to grow peppers, it is a technique which provides support for the plants as they mature and bear fruit. Trellising helps the plants grow vertically and this prevents them from sprawling thereby optimizing space utilization.
Trellising also enhances air circulation, reduces the risk of diseases and facilitates easier access for harvesting and pest management. Trellising also helps maintain the structural integrity of the pepper plants, preventing breakage under the weight of the fruit.
Trellising methods – You can use the traditional stake and tie methods or more intricate trellis systems, either way the trellis system will get you healthier plants, improved yields, and overall efficient crop management.
Pruning
Pruning has similar benefits as those of implementing a trellis in your pepper garden. Pruning involves you selecting to cut or remove certain leaves, shoots and branches, the main reason is to direct all the plants energy to the fruit or pepper bearing parts and also help the plant grow taller.
Pruning should be started once the pepper plants have developed their top true leaves, when pruning the top leaves should be not be touched and not damaged. The timing when pruning peppers is key when mastering how to grow peppers, therefore you should monitor and prune your plants as they continue to grow and develop.
Harvesting
Once you know how to grow peppers and you have grown them you now need to know when to harvest them. You can harvest your once they reach the desired size and color, and this is usually after about 70-90 days after transplanting.
Market in Namibia: Peppers are a staple in Namibian cooking. Sell surplus peppers at local markets, grocery stores, or directly to consumers.
In conclusion, methods of how to grow peppers have evolved and these new techniques help farmers grow nutritious and healthy peppers. By following the steps in the guide about, you will master how to grow peppers in Namibia or any other place.
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