For fresh use, chili peppers can be harvested either at the green immature or red mature stage.

Pepper plants are fragile. Be careful when harvesting not to damage the plants.

Consider wearing gloves when harvesting to avoid getting the pungent oils of the peppers on your skin. Avoid touching your mouth. Wash your hands immediately after harvesting.

Harvesting can continue for several months under good conditions. Fruits can be harvested weekly as they ripen.