Bishops Crown Seeds

Unveil a world of tantalising flavour and striking beauty in your garden with the Bishops Crown chilli plant. Renowned for its distinctive bishop's hat or crown shape, this Capsicum baccatum species offers a perfect blend of culinary versatility and ornamental appeal. Hailing from Central and South America, this plant can thrive as an annual or a perennial in New Zealand's climate. Bring a touch of fiery allure to your dishes and make your garden truly stand out with the Bishops Crown chilli plant.

Begin your journey towards a dazzling chilli garden by sowing Bishops Crown chilli seeds indoors during late winter or early spring. For optimal germination, maintain a temperature between 20-25°C and keep the soil consistently moist. Once the seedlings have developed at least two sets of true leaves and the risk of frost has passed, transplant them outdoors, spacing them 40-60cm apart. Choose a location with well-drained soil and full sun exposure to promote healthy growth and vibrant fruit production.

To nurture your Bishops Crown chilli plant to its full potential, provide regular watering, especially during dry spells. Although drought-tolerant, it thrives best with consistent moisture. Feed your plant with a balanced liquid fertiliser every 2-3 weeks to encourage strong, vigorous growth. In New Zealand, flowering typically occurs between October and January, followed by an abundant fruit set.

Patience rewards the diligent gardener when harvesting Bishops Crown chilli pods. Reap the fruits of your labour after 70-110 days, depending on your region's climate. The pods will transition from green to yellow, orange, and finally to a brilliant red when fully ripe. Harvesting regularly encourages further fruit production, extending the bountiful yield throughout the season.

Bishops Crown chilli pods offer a mild to moderate heat, ranking between 5,000 and 30,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHUs). This heat level is suitable for those who enjoy a little spice without overwhelming their taste buds.

Keep a watchful eye on your Bishops Crown chilli plants for common pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and slugs. Employ organic pest control methods like neem oil or introduce beneficial insects like ladybirds to protect your plants. Maintain proper hygiene and avoid overwatering to prevent diseases such as mould, rot, and bacterial infections.

Let your culinary creativity soar with the versatile Bishops Crown chilli. Employ these mild-to-moderate heat pods in an array of dishes like salads, dips, sauces, and stews. Dry and grind them into chilli powder or concoct your own signature hot sauce. Revel in the delightful flavours and striking colours that these unique chilli pods bring to your table.