Not every hobby gardener can get used to growing chili indoors. This does not necessarily mean involuntary chili abstinence. If there is no garden available, the plants thrive on the balcony.
How do you successfully grow chillies on the balcony?
To grow chilies on the balcony, plant them in potting soil with additional components such as garden soil, compost, sand and primary rock powder. Make sure to only put the plants outside when temperatures are consistently above 5 degrees Celsius. Support growth with a wooden stick and slow-release fertilizer.
When can chili go on the balcony?
Since cultivation starts quite early in the year, a little patience is required before moving to the balcony. As tropical plants, chilies do not tolerate frosty temperatures. Sowing and planting take place under glass.
As soon as the temperature no longer falls below 5 degrees Celsius day and night, we go out onto the balcony. If you like, you can harden the plants beforehand by placing them there for an hour at a time.
This is how chili culture works in the flower box
Any container that offers enough space for the root ball can be used as planters. The classic 1 meter flower box is also included. Its volume is indeed limited. It makes up for this by being a space saver for 3 chili plants.
- if not already available, drill several holes in the ground
- create a drainage made of gravel or chippings
- Plant chili and water well with rainwater
It makes sense to support each plant with a wooden stick (€13.00 on Amazon). The binding material must not cut into the plant tissue. As they grow, tie up the chilies regularly.
Nutritious substrate compensates for small volumes
If 3 highly consuming chili peppers thrive next to each other, the properties of the soil are adapted accordingly. Ideally, you increase the nutrient content by adding other components.
- 4 parts potting soil
- 1 part garden soil with clay
- 1 part sifted compost
- 1 handful of sand
- 1 tablespoon primary rock flour
Last but not least, a dose of slow-release fertilizer should not be missing. The composition is phosphate-focused, for a strong root system.
How to maintain variety purity on the balcony
The limited space capacity should not prevent you from growing different varieties. Unwanted cross-pollination can be effectively prevented using simple means.
Just before the flowers open, perform artificial pollination within each variety. Each flower is then given an air-permeable hood. Tea bags that you fill yourself are well suited.
Tips & Tricks
Smart hobby gardeners place their chili balcony boxes in the second row behind flowers. This flowering protective wall blocks wind and rain. At the same time, the infestation by aphids on the chili plants is reduced.
