WanZai Chili Peppers

WanZai Chili Peppers

　　Chili peppers are a famous local product of WanZai County with a long history. In WanZai County, chili peppers are divided into two types: pointed chilies and round chilies, with a wide variety of cultivars, each with its own unique characteristics. The pointed chilies mainly include yellow chili, bullhorn chili, upside-down chili, and Seven Sisters, among which the yellow chili and bullhorn chili are considered the best for their thick flesh and strong spiciness. The yellow chili has yellow flesh and skin, with a smooth surface. When dried, the skin becomes transparent and shiny, with an intense spiciness, while the Seven Sisters are the hottest. The lantern chili has a milder spiciness and a sweet, fresh taste. Even when dried, it retains bright colors, but due to its higher moisture content, it is less suitable for storage and transport. After 1990, WanZai County accelerated the introduction of new chili varieties, including the Xinxian series, Xiangyan series, Yiyuan series, Guangdong Lvyuan series, Shinong Tong chili, and Shengli chili, resulting in a very rich selection of chili varieties. The chili planting area in WanZai County is around 10,000 mu. The preferred growing conditions are loose, fertile, well-drained soil. The main cultivation techniques include selecting high-quality varieties, applying sufficient base fertilizer—mainly well-rotted organic fertilizer—planting at appropriate density, utilizing greenhouses and high-altitude off-season cultivation. Pest and disease control measures are implemented, and the use of greenhouses and plastic mulching can advance planting time and market availability.