Growing Chilli peppers, also Hot peppers

Capsicum sp. : Solanaceae / the nightshade family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
    S                  
        T T            
        P P            

(Best months for growing Chilli peppers in USA - Zone 5a regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • P = Sow seed
  • Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 64°F and 95°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 16 - 20 inches apart
  • Harvest in 9-11 weeks. Wear gloves to pick 'hot' chillies.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Best grown in a separate bed as chillies need plenty of light and air circulation.

Your comments and tips

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21 Jun 08, Tammi (Australia - temperate climate)
Thank you so very much for the Slater advice. I will try the orange.
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Hi Matt (27th April 09). I have the same chillies growing as you do. Mine are called Firecrackers. I think they are the Firecracker Piquin from Capsicum Annuum family which i believe means you should keep some seeds if you want to grow them again. It may or may not survive til next year. A nice chilli though. We have been thoroughly enjoying the Black Pearl, Scotch Bonnet and White Habanero this season. Still got a few to ripen. Lucky the days in Perth are still sunny. The Jamaican Gold produced some beautiful looking fruit this year too and quite delicious!

- Mark

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