Chillies

Want to add a bit of spice to your life? Then growing chillies is the way to go! Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a complete newbie, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about growing these fiery little wonders. From seed to spice, let's get growing!

TL;DR on Growing Chillies

Start your chilli seeds indoors from late winter to early spring (January-March) in a warm spot. Once the weather warms up and all risk of frost has passed (late May to June), move them outside to a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained soil or compost. Keep them watered, feed them a high-potassium fertiliser when fruiting, and harvest when ripe (midsummer to early autumn). You can even overwinter them for an early crop next year!

The Nitty-Gritty: Growing Chillies Explained

So, you're ready to grow your own chillies? Awesome! First things first, you need to find a sunny, sheltered spot. These little guys love warmth and sunshine, so aim for at least six hours of direct sun each day. You can grow them in the ground, raised beds, containers, or growbags – whatever suits your space. Just make sure the soil is well-drained; they don't like soggy feet! The best soil for chillies is a good quality potting compost, enriched with some organic matter if you’re planting in the ground.

From Seed to Seedling

Start your seeds indoors between January and March. Use a propagator or a warm windowsill to get things going. Sow the seeds thinly in seed compost, cover with a touch of vermiculite, and keep the compost moist. We’re looking for a temperature between 18-25°C (64-77°F) here, so a warm spot is key. Once your seedlings have two sets of true leaves (not the first ones, the cotyledons), it's time to pot them on into individual pots of potting compost.

Planting Out

Once the last frost has gone (usually late spring or early summer), and your seedlings are about 15-20cm (6-8in) tall, it's time to move them outside. But don't just chuck them out there! The best way to do this is to acclimatise them over a week. This is where we "harden them off". This involves putting the plant outside during the day and then bringing them back in at night.

Chilli Plant Care: Watering and Feeding

Watering is key, especially during dry spells, but be careful not to drown them! When the first tiny chillies start to form, give them a high-potassium fertiliser to help them develop into beautiful, spicy fruit. Regular harvesting will also encourage the plant to produce more chillies. If you're growing in pots, make sure they don't dry out. A layer of mulch around the base of the plant can help with this.

Overwintering Chillies

If you're feeling ambitious, you can overwinter your chilli plants. Move them to a bright, frost-free location for the winter, reduce the watering, and they’ll be ready to go again in spring, giving you an earlier harvest!

Harvesting Those Fiery Fruits

You can harvest chillies at any stage, from green to fully ripe. Green chillies are generally milder, while red, orange, and yellow chillies have a hotter flavour. Snip them off with scissors or secateurs and, pro tip – avoid touching your eyes after handling chillies!

Chilli Plant Diseases & Pests

Like all plants, chillies can be prone to pests and diseases, but these are easily dealt with. Common issues include aphids, whitefly, red spider mite, powdery mildew, and blossom end rot. The key is to keep your plants healthy and well-watered. If you do encounter any problems, treat them promptly with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide.

Types of Chillies

There are so many types of chillies to choose from - from mild to scorchingly hot! Some popular varieties include Jalapeños, Serrano, Habanero, and Scotch Bonnet, each with their unique flavour and heat profile. Why not try a few different types and see which you prefer?

So, there you have it! Your complete guide to growing chillies. With a little bit of care and attention, you'll be harvesting your own spicy peppers in no time! Happy growing!