Capsicum

When Christopher Colombus dicovered Chillis in Central America, he thought he had discovered black pepper and gave them the name Pepper. What we know as capsicums were referred to as ´sweet peppers´. In North America today, Capsicums are still known as peppers. Capsicums are an integral part of the national cuisine in many counties throughout Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas.

Cultivation

Capsicum are a warm season crop and thrive in a warm climate. If growing from seed, be sure to sow seeds when the coll nights ahave past, if the weather is too cold its unlikely they will germinate. Before planting, dig in plenty of organic matter such as cow manure and compost. Once planted, keep a regular watering pattern so they dont dry out. As the plant matures and flowers develop, apply a liquid fertiliser high in potassium, too much nitrogen may result in flower drop.

If your planning on growing some capsicum this year, try these 2 new varieties from OASIS.

Capsicum - Purple

Capsicum Purple produces large bell shaped fruit with thick walls that mature through shades of yellow, red and lilac. This capsicum has firm, sweet fruit and tolerates a range of climates, including cool and hot, humid conditions.

Capsicum - White Bell

A  high yielding capsicum that produces ivory white to pale yellow fruit that flush to pale red. These capsicums have thick, lobed walls and reach approximately 13cm x 7cm in size at maturity. It is an early maturing capsicum with good disease resistance.