Chillies are hot right now and its not just their flavor.
They are one of the top-selling plants for edible gardens.
The heat of a chilli comes from a chemical known as capsaicin.
Chilli plants that are sold as ornamental may have hot-tasting fruit.
Admire but dont eat.
The fruit of Capsicum annuum is, however, edible.
So-called ornamental varieties of chilli include Little Elf.
Whether ornamental or edible, always keep chilli plants well away from children.
GROWING TIPS
Chillies are in the Solanaceae family, along with tomatoes and potatoes.
They are frost sensitive, especially when small.
Plants grow to around 4060cm high.
Chillies are sold as seed, seedlings or small plants.
When the weather warms, chillies begin to flower then form fruit.
Aphidsand whitefly may attack chillies.
Larger chilli fruit may also be attacked by fruit fly.
Use a fruit-fly lure and bait to reduce damage, especially as fruit ripens.
Feed plants once theyve begun to bloom.
Apply a complete fertilizer every six weeks or liquid-feed potted plants fortnightly.
Lightly prune plants to encourage new growth after harvesting.
Harvest chillies as they are needed.
Preserve bountiful crops by drying, freezing or plaiting the fruit into an attractive kitchen decoration.
WARNING
Chillies arent only hot to eat.
Just handling the fruit can lead to burning.
Avoid touching your eyes or mouth until after youve washed your hands.
