Chili has long taken the hearts of hobby gardeners by storm. The decorative plant with pretty flowers and tasty pods can be discovered in diverse varieties. Sowing chili peppers is easier than you think.
How do you sow chili seeds?
To sow chili seeds successfully, place the seeds in lukewarm s alt water for 1-2 days, sow them in 2-3 mm deep holes in nutrient-poor soil, create a warm, moisture-rich climate at 25-27 Degrees Celsius and ensure there is enough light.
An early timing is of utmost importance
Only if the sowing takes place in February or March does a rich harvest result in summer and autumn. Chili generally takes 60, 90 or 120 days from planting to maturity.
Raise the germination mood and sow correctly
For a seed to awaken from its dormant state, heat and moisture are required. If the seeds float in lukewarm s alt water for 1 or 2 days, this premise is fulfilled.
Fill a seed tray or seed pot with nutrient-poor soil. Sow the seeds 2 cm apart in pre-drilled holes 2-3 mm deep. Then sieve thinly and moisten with a fine shower gel.
Creating an ideal microclimate
Native to South and Central America, chili loves warmth. The following conditions promote rapid germination:
- constant temperatures of 25 to 27 degrees Celsius.
- partially shaded location on the windowsill.
- moist, warm microclimate in a mini greenhouse or under transparent film.
An insulating polystyrene plate (€35.00 on Amazon) or a special heating mat can effectively prevent cold feet. The cooler the environment, the longer the germination process takes. If the mercury column falls below 10 degrees Celsius, in the worst case scenario it stops completely.
Water carefully and do not fertilize
For various types of chili, growth from seed to seedling takes more than 14 days. So that the seeds do not dry out, they are moistened repeatedly. Waterlogging must not occur. However, there is no fertilization in this phase.
Seedlings want to see the light
If the cotyledons push out, the hunger for light increases. Ideally, place your protégés in a sunny, south-facing window. If they present themselves as stunted seedlings despite an advantageous location, a fluorescent plant lamp works wonders in the dark season.
After 2 to 4 weeks it becomes too crowded for the young chili plants. If they are then transplanted into individual pots, the seedlings will thank you with a strong root ball and vital growth.
Tips & Tricks
If the seeds don't decide to germinate, just use a tried and tested trick. A teaspoon of guano is dissolved in a glass of warm water. Before sowing, soak the seeds overnight.
