Which high yielding black pepper variety and how do I dry for a deep black colour?

For a vigorous high yielding planting, the Panniyur series varieties and good local selections like Karimunda are widely grown, with the right choice depending on your area, shade and whether you grow on live standards or in the open. Confirm the recommended variety for your district with the Spices Board or your KVK. For deep black colour, harvest mature spikes, then a short hot water blanch before drying helps give a uniform dark colour and faster drying. Dry on clean mats or a drying floor, not on bare soil, until the berries are hard, wrinkled and properly dry. Even drying and avoiding mould give the deep black, clean berry that buyers pay more for. Keep the dried pepper in a dry store so it does not pick up moisture.