CHILLI-SMALL THAI-BIRDS EYE

How to Grow Small Thai-Birds Eye Chilli

1.  Small Thai Bird's Eye pepper plants prefer warm, sunny locations with well-draining soil. Make sure the location you choose has at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
2. Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date in your area.  If the weather is warm enough outside you can direct sow seeds.  Otherwise sow the seeds in seed trays or pots filled with seed compost.  Then cover with a plastic wrap or propagator lid to maintain humidity.
3. Transplant seedlings outside once the seedlings have grown to about 7-10cm tall and have at least two sets of true leaves.  They can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the garden.
4. Water regularly to maintain moisture but do not overwater.  Water the plants when the soil is dry to the touch and fertilise them every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertiliser.
5. Provide support if you Chili peppers decides to grow beyond its usual size. Generally they grow as a bush plant, however, they can get tall and heavy with fruit. Stake them for support when necessary as they grow.
6. Keep Pest and Disease in check for issues such as aphids, whiteflies and spider mites, and diseases such as powdery mildew and blight. Use organic pest control methods if possible.
7. Harvest when the Small Thai Bird's Eye peppers are ready at about 75-90 days after transplanting, depending on the variety. The peppers will change colour from green to red when they are fully ripe.

Heritage of Small Thai Birds Eye Chilli

Thai Birds Eye Chilli, also known as Prik Kee Noo (in Thailand), is native to Southeast Asia and commonly used in Thai, Vietnamese, and other Southeast Asian cuisines. It is believed the chilli was introduced to Thailand by Portuguese traders during the 16th century.  Now cultivated in many parts of the world it is a popular ingredient in various dishes and sauces. The larger seeded variety of Thai Birds Eye Chilli (Capsicum frutescens) is used more often in salads whereas the small Thai Birds Eye Chilli is used in curried, stir fries and soups adding a spicy kick to thrill the pallet.