GARDEN IDEAS
Growing Peppers
(from 'How to Grow Peppers - see below)
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There is archaeological evidence of wild peppers being cultivated for human consumption as far back as 5000 BC.
Chilli peppers were thought, for centuries, to have originated in India, but they actually come from South America. By the late 16th century, peppers were used in all regions of the world, especially in Europe and India.
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There are many different varieties of peppers. They come in all shapes, colours and sizes. However, there are two main types:
-Sweet peppers
-Chilli peppers
Generally, you will need fewer chilli pepper plants as they produce many chilli peppers, as oppose to sweet pepper plants which will produce fewer fruits.
But decide on what you and your family will eat. If you don’t use hot spices in your food very often, just grow one or two chilli pepper plants for when you do need them.
Chilli Pepper 'Basket of Fire' F1
I love this multi coloured pot of chillies at Thompson and Morgan (UK)
Peppers are originally a tropical plant and like to grow in warm soil, so a sunny position is best. However, the midday sun, if very hot, could scorch the leaves of plants and dry them out too quickly. Shade your plants from the midday sun if necessary.
Alternatively, peppers grow very well in containers and large pots, and can make a lovely display near the house. Containers can be moved into the shade if needed.
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I’m always tempted to sow seeds very early in the year, but I would advise against it. Peppers tend to suffer with stunted growth if they are struggling through slightly colder or shorter days than they need, to thrive. Plants that have struggled won’t perform well, if at all.
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When the time is right, sow seeds in well-drained pots or trays of fresh seed compost. Keep warm and watered until plants are large enough to transplant. They should have 3 or 4 true leaves (not counting the first two). Don’t let compost become water-logged.
Keep plants warm and watered until the weather has warmed up and there’s no danger of a frost, before planting out into the garden. If you are using biodegradable pots, dig holes and place whole pot in each. Fill with soil and water.
If you are using regular pots, water well before gently easing plants out. Try to handle as little as possible. Place in slightly smaller holes and fill in with soil. Water well (gently).
Full instructions on growing the best ever peppers can be found in this quick and easy growing guide from Healthy Living Books - Available almost everywhere!