Growing Peppers Indoors – Guidelines & Tips
Growing peppers indoors can be an enjoyable experience, and it can also provide you with a steady supply of fresh vegetables in your kitchen! Growing peppers in the comfort of your own home is actually easier than you might think, and with the right guidelines and tips in place, you can achieve a great harvest every season.
Getting Started
The first step in growing peppers indoors is selecting your variety. There are numerous types of peppers available, including sweet peppers, hot peppers, and ornamental pepper plants. Consider your personal preference when selecting a variety, and keep in mind that some types of peppers may require more light and space than others. Once you’ve chosen your plants, it’s time to purchase your supplies.
When selecting pots and other supplies for growing peppers, make sure to choose materials that are designed to withstand the demands of indoor gardening. Good drainage is essential for pepper plants, so choose containers with multiple drainage holes, and ensure that they’re the appropriate size for the plants you have chosen. Additionally, use a high-quality potting soil that is specifically designed for pepper plants and that is not too dense or heavy.
Location & Lighting
When it comes to location, be sure to choose a spot that receives plenty of bright, indirect light. South or east-facing windows are often the best choice. You’ll need to provide at least six hours of light per day, so if natural light is not available, you may need to supplement with artificial light from grow lights, fluorescent bulbs, or LED bulbs.
Water & Fertilizer
One of the most important steps in growing peppers indoors is proper watering. To avoid over-watering, check your soil before watering. Your soil should be dry at least one inch down before watering your plants. Aim to water your peppers deeply and thoroughly, but avoid letting the water to stand in the container. Additionally, fertilizing your pepper plants fortnightly with organic fish emulsion is recommended.
Tips & Common Problems
Some helpful tips for successful pepper growing include:
- Rotate your plants a quarter-turn each week to ensure that all sides of the plant get enough light.
- If your plants start to appear leggy or weak, move them to a spot that receives more light.
- Remove dead leaves and blossoms to keep your plants healthy.
Common problems that can arise while growing peppers indoors include aphids, whiteflies, and fungus gnats. To prevent these issues, avoid overwatering and inspect your plants regularly for signs of pests. If pests become an issue, use natural neem oil or insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
Harvesting & Storage
When it’s time to harvest your peppers, use shears or scissors to cut them from the stem. If you want to store your peppers, you can blanch them in boiling water for 90 seconds and then freeze them. You can also dehydrate peppers to make a flavorful, spicy powder to use in sauces and salsas. Enjoy your homegrown peppers!
