Chilli pepper. Apart from being commercially viable crops, chiilies are used in organic pesticides. PHOTO/GEORGE KATONGOLE
Organic farmers are discovering the fiery benefits of chili peppers. This versatile crop, known for its spicy flavour and vibrant colour, is not only a culinary delight but also a valuable tool for sustainable agriculture.
Reagan Lojuan Muyinda, the Kasenge Riverford Organic Farm manager, says growing chilli is very important for organic farmers as it keeps giving them cash rewards yet it’s a key ingredient in making plant-based pesticides.
Engaged in vegetable production through kitchen gardens, Kasenge Riverford sells a variety of vegetables such as cabbage, radish, tomatoes, hot pepper, onions and Chinese cabbage (pak choi) to their customers on the farm.
“Every organic farmer must grow chillies. One of the most significant advantages of chilli peppers for organic farmers is their natural pest-repelling properties,” Lojuan says.
The capsaicin, a compound responsible for the chili's heat, acts as a powerful deterrent to many common garden pests, including aphids, whiteflies, and beetles.
“Even by merely planting chilli peppers around vegetables and crops, farmers can create a natural barrier, reducing the need for harmful chemical pesticides,” he says.
Chili peppers offer a natural and effective solution to common garden pests. The key ingredient, capsaicin, acts as a powerful deterrent, keeping many insects at bay.
The shift towards organic practices, driven by the discovery of local plants with natural pest-repellent properties, allows farmers to cultivate healthier, more sustainable produce, leading to increased profits and a brighter future for their families and the community.
Lojuan explains that they have observed a boost in their crop yields while reducing dependency on costly chemical inputs.
The use of chemical pesticides, he said, was not only costly, but also harmed the environment, depleting the soil's richness and affecting the health of the community.
“There's a growing need for backyard vegetable production and the use of chemicals is not sustainable in such cases," he says.
Lojuan says that there are other plants with pest-repellent properties that can be used such as Mexican marigold and the toxic yellow flowers of Teprosia vogelii.
These plants, he said, are toxic to insects, making them an effective and eco-friendly option for pest control in organic farming.
Preparing chilli pepper spray
Lojuan says that one should finely chop 10-15 hot chili peppers, including the seeds. The chopped material is boiled in a liter of water for 15-20 minutes. The mixture is left to cool down before it is strained.
Normally, farmers are advised to add a teaspoon of liquid soap to help the spray adhere to plants but at the farm they prefer to use salt.
At this stage the mixture is ready, and it can be filled in a spray bottle to apply directly to infested plants.
Lojuan adds that chilli pepper can also be mixed with garlic or neem oil.
Other plant-based ingredients used in repellents include citronella, Eucalyptus, peppermint and lemongrass. These plants contain compounds that interfere with the insect's olfactory system or irritate their sensory organs.
"Unlike chemical alternatives, this traditional concoction is safe for the soil, crops, and the people who consume the produce as well as helping in mitigating climate change," Lojuan says.
Safety first
Since peppers are hot, it is advisable to wear gloves and where possible eye protection gear.
Farmers are also advised to do a test spray on a small area of the plant first to ensure it doesn't damage the foliage.
To ensure more safety, the unused mixture should be stored in clearly labeled containers, out of reach of children and pets.
As a general rule, one should avoid spraying on windy days to prevent the spray from drifting onto other plants or people.
“To get the optimal results, farmers should consistently apply the mixture on the crops,” he says.
Beyond their ecological benefits, chili peppers can be a lucrative crop for organic farmers as the demand for organic chili peppers is steadily increasing.
Tips for growing chilli peppers
According to Lojuan, growing chillies is a simple task. The main task is to grow the plant under optimal conditions to be able to produce desired levels of capsaicin, which is the chemical compound that gives the fruits the heat.
The first consideration for farmers should be about the genetics of the plant. He says that farmers should select varieties that are well-suited to their local climate and soil conditions.
He advises on choosing a sunny spot to ensure that plants receive at least six hours of direct sunlight.
He adds that chillies should be planted in well-drained soil rich in organic matter to provide essential nutrients for chilli growth.
The plants should be watered consistently, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot.
In the garden, chilli plants should be spaced at least 18-24 inches apart to allow for adequate air flow and prevent fungal diseases.
Regular removal of weeds around the plants is important to reduce competition for water and other nutrients.
The chilli plants can be fertilised with a balanced fertiliser regularly to promote healthy growth.
When the plants reach the desired size and colour, they should be harvested by using scissors to avoid damaging the plant.
