Taipei: The Plant Propagation Center 2 in Trang Province is actively encouraging farmers to utilize vacant lands for the cultivation of chili peppers, which can be harvested after just 70 days and offer promising yields and attractive market prices.
According to Thai News Agency, Mrs. Wanna Phrombunthong, Director of Plant Propagation Center 2, along with agricultural experts and staff, is supporting the collection of the "Duay Kai" pepper, a variety favored in the southern regions. This chili type, known for its rapid growth cycle of 70-80 days, is being promoted to help farmers generate income.
Mrs. Wanna highlighted the benefits of the chicken spur chili, which is a high-yielding variety featuring many flowers and fetching high prices in the market. Known for its spicy taste and fragrant aroma, it is a preferred choice among southern consumers. The chili grows as a large bush and resembles chicken spurs, hence its name. Each plant can produce 2-3 kilograms annually and can be cultivated in compact spaces using pots or recycled containers. This flexibility allows for easy relocation in cases of adverse weather or for ornamental purposes. The minimum selling price stands at 100 baht per kilogram, with potential increases to 200-300 baht if supply dwindles. The chili is suitable for use in restaurants, curry paste production, and household cooking.
The center annually produces approximately 200,000-300,000 seedlings, priced at 3 baht each, to meet farmer demand, though supply remains limited. Additionally, the center offers elephant chilies, which are similar to bell peppers and mildly spicy, for fresh consumption or culinary use. Farmers interested in these opportunities are encouraged to seek information or visit the center for guidance.