How to Plant Green Chilli in Pots

Chilli peppers are a popular ingredient in many dishes, and they are also easy to grow in pots. In this guide, we will show you how to plant green chilli in pots for a fresh and constant supply of spicy goodness.

Choosing the Right Pot and Soil

The first step is to choose a suitable pot for planting green chilli. A pot with a diameter of at least 12 inches and a depth of 12 inches should be sufficient. Make sure the pot has drainage holes at the bottom to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Next, fill the pot with well-draining soil. It's best to use a mixture of garden soil, compost, and sand in equal parts. Add some perlite to improve drainage and a handful of bone meal to provide essential nutrients.

Sowing Seeds

Now it's time to sow the green chilli seeds. Plant two to three seeds per pot, about a quarter to a half inch deep. Cover the seeds with soil and gently water until the soil is moist. Keep the pot in a warm and bright location, but out of direct sunlight.

Within 2-3 weeks, you should see sprouts popping up from the soil. Once the sprouts are about an inch tall, thin them out, leaving only one plant per pot and removing the weaker ones.

Caring for Chilli Plants

Now that your green chilli plant has grown, it will need care to thrive. Water your plant once or twice a week, depending on the weather and the size of the pot. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.

Chilli plants also need plenty of sunlight. If you are growing chilli indoors, place the pot near a sunny window or use artificial grow lights as a substitute. Outdoor plants should be placed in a sunny spot with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.

To encourage healthy growth, feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks. Alternatively, you can use compost or compost tea to provide nutrients to the soil.

Harvesting Green Chillies

After several weeks, your green chilli plant will start producing fruit. Harvest them when they reach the desired size and color. Green chillies are typically harvested when they are still green, but you can wait for them to ripen and turn red if you prefer a spicier flavor.

Simply use scissors or a knife to cut the chilli pepper from the stem. Be careful not to damage the plant or the remaining fruit. With proper care, your green chilli plant will produce fruit for several months.

Conclusion

Planting green chilli in pots is a rewarding experience that doesn't require a lot of effort or space. By following these steps, you can enjoy fresh and spicy chilli peppers all year round. Just remember to choose the right pot and soil, sow the seeds properly, and care for your plants with water, sunlight, and nutrients. Happy planting!