To harvest purple cayenne peppers, I like to use a sharp knife or pair of scissors. I find that this gives me more control and precision when cutting the peppers from the plant.
When it comes to picking the first fruits, I always look for peppers that have reached a usable size. This is usually when they are around 3-4 inches long and have a vibrant purple color. By picking these first fruits, it helps to stimulate the growth of the other peppers on the plant.
However, I also make sure to leave some peppers on the plant to mature. As the peppers mature, they will change color from purple to a deep red. This not only adds a beautiful pop of color to the plant, but it also allows the peppers to sweeten up. The mature peppers are perfect for adding a touch of sweetness and heat to dishes.
To sum it up, when harvesting purple cayenne peppers, I use a sharp instrument to carefully cut the peppers from the plant. I pick the first fruits when they reach a usable size to encourage the growth of other peppers. I also leave some peppers on the plant to mature and change color, which enhances their sweetness. Harvesting peppers this way ensures a bountiful and flavorful harvest.