Peppers harvested between November and May are mainly exported with 2nd and 3rd grade produce being sold in the local market. As peppers are extremely sensitive to variations in temperature, Israel's Arava desert is a good place to grow them. The Arava's year-round warm temperature and low humidity create a low risk of fungus or disease and minimal need for pesticides. Peppers thrive in 16-18oC weather. At 18oC night temperature, the peppers ripen rapidly but their taste is less sweet and the overall quality is reduced.
Temperate peppers are also sensitive to saline in water.
To combat the high salt content of the water, additional water is used to wash salt away from the roots. The challenge facing researchers now is to grow strong, healthful, easily adaptable seeds and peppers to pass on to you, the consumer. To keep those peppers fresher longer, store them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. If you see mold on the seeds of a pepper, know that it is caused by a fungus that attacks the plant's flower. All Rights Reserved.