Chilli - Thai Hot seeds

Product Overview: Chilli Seeds

Chilli peppers are a vibrant and flavorful addition to any garden, perfect for warm climates where they can thrive. Whether you’re growing them in your garden or in containers, chilli plants provide a steady supply of spicy fruits ideal for cooking, preserving, and enjoying fresh. With a little attention to soil, watering, and light, you can easily grow these versatile plants year-round.

Growing Guide for Chilli Seeds

When to Sow

Chilli plants thrive in warm conditions, so sowing should be done once temperatures are consistently warm, avoiding frost. Refer to local climate guides to determine the best sowing time for your region.

Preparation

1. Choose the Right Location:

   • Chilli plants need at least 6 hours of full sunlight daily.
   • Ensure the soil is well-drained and enriched with organic matter like compost or aged manure.

2. Soil Preparation:

   • Prepare the soil by thoroughly weeding and loosening it before planting. Keep the area free of weeds until sowing.

3. Container Growing:

   • Chilli plants can be grown in containers, provided the pot is large enough (at least 20 liters).
   • Use a high-quality potting mix, and be mindful that container plants may require additional fertilization during the growing season.

How to Sow Chilli Seeds

1. Direct Sowing:

   • Sow seeds 5mm deep and space them 100cm apart, with rows 120cm apart.
   • Keep the soil moist, avoiding overly wet or dry conditions.
   • Seeds typically germinate in 7-21 days at a soil temperature between 22-35°C.

2. Raising Seedlings:

   • Fill trays or containers with a good seed-raising mix.
   • Sow seeds 5mm deep and keep the soil moist.
   • Once seedlings have their first true leaves and are 5-10cm tall, transplant them into the garden, spacing them 100cm apart.

Tip: In cooler climates, sow seeds indoors 6 weeks before the last expected frost. Keep them in a warm spot with plenty of natural light.

Caring for Chilli Plants

1. Watering:

   • Water when the soil feels dry about 5cm below the surface. Water deeply in the early morning or late afternoon, avoiding wetting the leaves to prevent fungal diseases.

2. Fertilizing:

   • If the soil was well-prepared, no extra fertilization may be necessary.
   • For poor soil or an extra boost, use a balanced fertilizer or one designed for fruit and vegetables:
     • Apply slow-release fertilizer when transplanting or when seedlings are 5-10cm tall.
     • Use liquid fertilizer during the fruiting and flowering stages.

3. Staking and Support (Optional):

   • Use sturdy stakes or a trellis to support growing chilli plants. Tie the stems gently with twine or plant ties to avoid root disturbance.

Tip: Chilli plants can be grown as annuals or short-lived perennials. In tropical and subtropical climates, they will produce fruit year-round. In cooler climates, treat them as annuals, or overwinter them in pots, pruning hard and protecting from frost.

How to Harvest Chillies

• Chilli fruit is typically ready for harvest about 80 days after sowing.
• Harvest when the fruit is firm with glossy skin. You can pick the chillies before or after they begin to change color, depending on your preference.
• Use snips or secateurs to cut the fruit, leaving around 3cm of stem attached.
• For short-term storage, keep the fruit at room temperature, or refrigerate for extended freshness. For long-term storage, chillies can be dried, frozen, or preserved in oil.

With the right care, growing chillies is an easy and rewarding experience, whether you're a beginner or an experienced gardener. Enjoy a continuous harvest of these fiery fruits, perfect for spicing up your meals!