Peppers and Chilis


Sowing: Chilli's and peppers require alot of heat in order to germinate efficiently and this is best done in a heated propagate or a windowsill propagator. Alternatively a 6" pot of compost with a plastic sandwich bag over the top will act as a mini greenhouse until the plants have been separated into individual pots.


Potting On: When the seeds have formed their first set of true leaves pot up the seedlings into 3" pots. The plants need a long growing period so a slow release fertiliser added to a compost is advised.
Planting Out: When the plants are large enough to fill the pot with the roots continue to pot up one size at a time until the pots are 10 litres capacity. Once the plants form flowers feed weekly with a high potash feed (such as tomato feed) to encourage the forming and the ripening of the fruits.



Harvesting: When harvesting a quick tug on the pepper should release it from the plant with a small section of stem. If the pepper isn't released just snip at the stem joint with some sharp secateurs.


Pests and Diseases: The number one pest for the peppers and chilli's are aphids, tiny insects that bit into live plant tissue allowing in other pests and diseases. Marigolds are a way of reducing the appeal of the plants as the aphids do not like the smell however in times of infestations a multipurpose insecticide is normally enough to stop the attacks. The other problems for peppers and chilli's include:
  • Slugs and Snails  -   Pellets
  • Blossom end rot - Check watering regime
Varieties: The following are the varieties i have used with notes on the performance of each one.
  • Cayenne - Widely available, easy to grow and good cropper
  • Jalapeno - Good fruit producer, good on the kitchen.
  • California Wonder (Sweet) - Easy to grow, widely available, excellent in the kitchen
Cayenne
Jalapeno
California Wonder

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