Pay attention to picking peppercorns

01 Preparation for picking Sichuan peppercorns (picking tools)

In the process of planting Sichuan pepper, the biggest challenge is the picking problem. In addition to expensive labor costs, the Sichuan pepper tree is covered with short thorns. If not picked properly, it can cause finger injuries and bleeding, and in severe cases, redness, swelling, and inflammation. Therefore, when picking Sichuan pepper, in order to avoid hand injuries, we need to prepare Sichuan pepper finger cots or related protective measures in advance to ensure rapid picking and shorten working hours.

Note that the container for storing Sichuan peppercorns should not be too full, otherwise the Sichuan peppercorns will easily turn black in hot weather. In addition to portable backpacks, baskets, and baskets, special Sichuan peppercorns frames are generally chosen. These tools should be clean and pollution-free, and soft gauze can be used as an inner lining to prevent scratching of the Sichuan peppercorns skin. However, toxic and non breathable materials such as plastic film should not be used as an inner lining. When we finish picking and shaping Sichuan pepper trees, we need to prepare electric scissors and frames for storing branches. In addition, pay attention to sun protection and heatstroke prevention during high temperature weather. Those who have the conditions can wear straw hats and sun protective clothing.

02 Determination of harvesting period

The different varieties of Sichuan pepper and their planting in different regions will result in different production characteristics and maturity periods. Based on planting experience and changes in environmental temperature and humidity, pepper farmers can choose the best harvesting period on their own. For green and white peppers, it is suitable to pick them when the color is dark green, the skin stitching is raised, there is a small amount of cracking, and there is a strong aroma; For red Sichuan peppercorns, when the fruit is ripe, the surface is bright red, with a bright luster and obvious protrusions, which is the appropriate time for harvesting.

03 Technical points in picking Sichuan peppercorns

The picking of Sichuan peppercorns is mainly done by hand, with one hand holding the branch and the other hand pinching the peppercorns from the base of the branch downwards. The picking process should ensure that the entire fruit ear is intact as much as possible.

When picking, pay attention to: ① Handle with care and do not pick Sichuan peppercorns with your hands, otherwise it may damage the skin. After the skin is damaged, the oil packet is broken, and the oil juice inside can infect other skin, causing the leather of the sun dried green and white pepper skin to turn black, affecting the surface smoothness and color of the Sichuan pepper, and reducing its commercial value.

② Branches with dew are not suitable for picking, and they are not suitable for picking in bad weather.

③ Suggest pruning while picking to reduce the workload of subsequent Sichuan pepper tree pruning and shaping.

04 Management after Picking

For fresh pepper,

After picking fresh Sichuan peppercorns, they should be immediately spread on a sunny ground or mat to dry on the same day, avoiding rain and direct sunlight. When picking Sichuan peppercorns, it is necessary to choose sunny weather in the morning, air dry at noon, and sun dry for half a day. If left overnight, the color of Sichuan peppercorns will be greatly reduced.

If it cannot be sun dried on the same day due to time constraints, it is necessary to manage the storage of Sichuan peppercorns properly. Generally, indoor storage is preferred, with no leakage of rain, limited ventilation, dim lighting, and a constant temperature as much as possible. The floor should not be damp. It is best to choose earthen wall houses and brick concrete houses. The interior should be kept clean, free of debris, and odorless.