Ramadan & Eid al-Fitr Chili Prices Skyrocket, IPB University Lecturer Provides Steps to Grow Chili at Home
At the beginning of Ramadan 1446H, the prices of food commodities have increased, including cayenne pepper. The price of cayenne pepper is currently experiencing a drastic surge. In some areas, the price of cayenne pepper even touched 120.000 per kilogram on Sunday (2/3).
Some time ago, the Ministry of Home Affairs, Tito Karnavian, invited the public to carry out a movement to plant chilies in their respective yards as an anticipatory measure. Most recently, the Coordinating Ministry for Food Affairs, Zulkifli Hasan made a similar comment.
Responding to this, Professor of the Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, IPB University, Prof Syukur explained a number of advantages of planting chilies at home, especially when facing food price spikes.
“Chili can be planted in the yard by utilizing empty land or in pots,” he said.
He explained that by planting 10 chili trees every two months, the chili needs of the family (husband, wife, and two children) can be met throughout the year. This can help the family economy, especially when chili prices are high.
Prof Syukur also offered a variety of IPB University chili varieties that can be planted in the yard, both in pots and on the ground.
“Many types of chili varieties are suitable for planting at home and easy to maintain. If you want to plant it in pots, you can use IPB ornamental chilies, such as Ayesha IPB, Syakira IPB, Lembayung IPB, Viola IPB, or Triwarsana IPB,” said Prof Syukur.
For chilies planted in the field, Prof Syukur offers the Neno Tavi IPB variety for curly chilies and Bonita IPB for red cayenne peppers.
He also elaborated on some basic steps that need to be considered before starting to grow chilies at home.
“Before planting, we need planting media such as fermented manure, top soil, and husk charcoal. The ratio of each is 1:1:1. This planting medium can be used both for seedlings and planting in pots,” he said.
Prof Syukur added, the chili seeds are then sown in seedling trays or other containers that have been filled with suitable seedling media. After the seedlings grow and are ready to be transplanted, the chili plants need to be well cared for.
“Apply NPK fertilizer in sufficient quantities to support plant growth. In addition, it is important to control pests and diseases to keep the plants healthy and productive. With proper care, chili plants can grow well and produce a bountiful harvest,” he added. (Lp) (IAAS/LAN)
