મરચા

• Post-monsoon is the best time to plant if you want to enjoy chillies through winter.
• Use a pot at least 10-12 inches deep.
• Mix a loose soil blend of one-third garden soil, one-third manure, and one-third clean sand.
• Sow 4 seeds per pot, pressing lightly into the soil surface and covering with soil.
• Sprinkle lightly with water and keep soil moist until seedlings appear.
• Once seedlings have 4-6 true leaves and are 3-4 inches tall, transplant the healthiest one into its own pot.
• Chilli needs 6-7 hours of full sun.
• Water every alternate day, or once the soil is dry to about 2 inches deep.
• Give a handful of cow dung manure every 15 days.
• Pinch off the earliest flowers to encourage a stronger plant first.
• Harvest 60-75 days after sowing.

• Eaten fresh and dried, and worked into spice blends, pickles, sauces, and regional cuisines across India.

These uses are documented for information only and are not medical advice. Always verify the species and the plant part before use.

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