Sowing & Growing

Chilli peppers can be sown indoors, starting from late winter until mid-spring. Begin by filling a 10cm (4in) pot with high-quality seed compost, levelling it down to create a flat surface. Sow a few seeds on top, slightly exceeding the needed quantity to account for potential losses during germination. Cover with a fine layer of vermiculite, insert a plant label, and water. While a heated propagator accelerates germination, if unavailable, simply cover the pot with a clear plastic freezer bag secured with an elastic band. Once germinated, transfer the pot from the propagator to a well-lit windowsill or the bench in a heated greenhouse.

When the seedlings reach 2.5cm (1in) in height, transplant each into its own 10cm (4in) pot, ensuring the roots are adequately covered, and the leaves sit just above the compost surface. Water and place in a well-lit spot indoors. If seed sowing is overlooked or a suitable warm and bright location is unavailable, consider purchasing young plants from garden centres in late spring.

While the plants continue to grow indoors, transfer them to 13cm (5in) pots filled with general-purpose compost as roots start appearing through the drainage holes. When the plants reach approximately 20cm (8in) in height, or earlier if leaning occurs, stake them with a pea stick. Pinch out the tops of peppers when they reach about 30cm (12in) in height to stimulate abundant branching. Plants are ready for outdoor planting in late May or once the threat of frost has passed. Either plant directly into the ground, spacing them 45cm (18in) apart, or transfer them to 22cm (9in) pots for ample growing space—remove the small pea stick and cover with fleece or cloches. Alternatively, three chilli peppers can be planted in a standard growing bag. Taller cultivars may require three short sticks with strings for support. For an abundant harvest, ensure regular watering, especially in hot weather, and feed every two weeks with a general-purpose liquid fertilizer. Commence feeding when flowers first appear, typically while the plants are still indoors, and continue until the fruits are harvested.