Soil Enrichment: Prepare the ground by adding well-aged manure or nutrient-rich compost. To encourage stronger growth, use liquid fertilizer every two weeks and Epsom Salt.
Mulching: Use organic mulch like leaves, straw, or grass clippings to prevent evaporation and suppress weeds. Mulching should be done twice per year.
Planting Process
Seed Preparation: Soak the black pepper seeds in lukewarm water overnight. Then, plant them in pots with quality potting mix and aged manure or compost, at a depth of about a quarter to a half-inch. Space the seeds no more than three inches apart.
Germination and Growth: Plant the seeds indoors and keep the soil moist and warm. Germination should occur in 30 to 40 days. Once the seedlings are 5 to 6 inches tall, plant them outside, providing overhead shade at first.
Propagation from Cuttings: You can also propagate black pepper plants from runner shoots. Cut the shoots into two- or three-node cuttings and plant them in well-draining soil, keeping it moist.
Patience and Care
Growth Time: It may take several years for the black pepper plants to bloom and produce peppercorns, usually up to 5 years. Patience is key.
Pest and Disease Management: Keep an eye out for root rot, aphids, slugs, scale insects, and spider mites. Use organic pest control methods as needed.