Q: Dave,All logic would say that the hottest part of a chile is the capsaicin glands themselves, since this is where the capsaicinoids are produced. But my buddy says that it is the seed. Which individual part of any chile is the absolute hottest?Thanks, Chris Weaver A: Hello Chris:The hottest part of the chile is the placental tissue, where both capsaicin glands …
Considering Farming Chiles
Q: Dave,I am considering farming chiles, but I need to know where I can sell them. Do buyers contract with growers? If yes, for certain types? How do I reach the buyers?–Lex Pruitt Arkansas A: Hello Lex:In New Mexico, most farmers contract with processors or produce buyers before they plant their chiles. Over a hundred years, an industry has developed here …
How Close Are HPLC Ratings to Scoville Ratings?
Q: Hello Dave,How close are HPLC ratings to Scoville ratings? I’ve asked several people about this but I can’t seem to get a very specific answer. Does a 35,000 heat unit pepper based on Scoville testing have the same pungency as a 35,000 heat unit pepper based on HPLC testing? I was always under the impression that Scoville ratings are …
Looking for Delizie di Calabria in the U.S.
Q: Hi Dave,I am looking for a source in the U.S. to buy the condiments made by Delizie di Calabria. I’m half Calabrese so these hot peppers awake many good memories.Thank you, Marco Romano A: Hello Marco:I saw one of the salsa products in a pricey shop in Scottsdale, so the Delizie di Calabria sauces seem to have …
You Need Flowers to Make Pods
Q: Hi Dave,I have started to grow chiles and green peppers and would like to know if it is good to break off the flowers of the small trees. Does it help them develop a good root system? Or is it a bad practice?Thank you, Johan MaraisSouth Africa A: Hello Johan:No, do not remove the flowers, as you need flowers to …