Growing Peppers Indoors – Guidelines & Tips

Growing peppers indoors provides many benefits – control of temperature, sun, and moisture, more hours of light growth, and, of course, the pleasure of seeing your own peppers growing. It can also be a bit tricky, but with the right supplies, you can be successful. Here are some Guidelines & Tips for growing peppers indoors.

Location & Lighting

Peppers love at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight (i.e., full sun). If your windows don’t provide enough direct sunlight, you will need to provide supplemental lighting with fluorescent lights. Make sure the plants are no more than a foot away from the light source, and provide a full spectrum light to get the best results.

Containers & Soil

Pick a container that is large enough for the type of pepper you are growing. It should be at least 16” wide and 12-18” deep. Make sure the container has adequate drainage, and use a soil mix that drains well and is lightweight. You will also need to provide fertilizer specifically designed for peppers.

Temperature & Watering

Peppers prefer warm temperatures between 65°F and 80°F. They also need to be watered regularly. To achieve this, make sure there is always a thin layer of water at the bottom of the pot, and allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

Pollination

Indoor peppers can be pollinated in several ways. The most common is by using a small paintbrush to move the pollen from the anthers (male) to the stigma (female). You can also use a fan to move the air around, as this will help the pollination process.

Harvesting & Storage

When harvesting peppers, wear gloves to protect your hands, as some peppers can irritate skin. Once your peppers are harvested, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or you can dehydrate them to extend the shelf life.

Growing peppers indoors is a rewarding hobby. With the right supplies, location, and care, you can enjoy the pleasure of watching your peppers grow, and have the satisfaction of harvesting your own peppers. Have fun and enjoy the journey!