Growing Peppers Indoors – Guidelines & Tips
Growing peppers indoors can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Peppers have a wide range of colors, shapes, and flavors that can add a great degree of variety to both indoor and outdoor gardens. They can also be a great way to enjoy homegrown food all year round!
Choosing the Right Plant for Indoor Growing
When starting your indoor pepper journey, you will need to choose a variety of peppers that work best in your climate and home. Many cultivars of peppers have been bred specifically for indoor growing, including jalapenos, bell peppers, habaneros, and shishitos. Make sure to choose one with a size or shape that fits comfortably in your grow space.
Start Your Pepper From Seeds or Seedlings
Peppers are typically started from seed or seedlings. Starting from seed can be more economical, and offers a wider variety of cultivars. Starting from transplants can help avoid the risk of creating overcrowded and stressed plants.
Optimal Growing Conditions for Peppers
To ensure healthy growth, your indoor pepper plants should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. Try setting up a south-facing window with sheer curtains or a sunroof to allow the maximum light levels into your home. Temperature and humidity are also important for pepper growth. Try to maintain temperatures between 65 – 85 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity levels between 40 – 60%.
Container Gardening Tips for Peppers
When growing peppers indoors, it’s important to choose a pot with adequate drainage. Plastic or ceramic pots work best. The soil should be light, airy, and have ample organic material. Use a commercial potting soil that has a neutral pH balance to give your peppers the best environment possible. If you’re experiencing soil drainage issues, consider using a potting mix that contains perlite, which helps to improve drainage and aeration.
Feeding and Watering Indoors Peppers
Keep the soil of your pepper plants moist, but not wet. Consider using a tray under the pot to catch any excess water. Fertilize your peppers every two to three weeks with an organic fertilizer. Fertilize once every four to six weeks during winter months.
Common Problems & Pests
Pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites may attack your pepper plants. These can be managed using natural pest control methods, such as insecticidal soaps and oils. If the infestation is severe, there are also organic pesticides available. If your plants experience nutrient deficiencies, consider using a balanced fertilizer to restore balance.
Harvesting and Storing Peppers
Most pepper plants will produce fruits from three months to a year. When harvesting, pick fruits that are firm and full-colored. You can store peppers in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Conclusion
Growing peppers indoors can be a fun and rewarding experience. Use these guidelines and tips to give your indoor peppers the best environment possible. Start by choosing the right variety for your space, and provide ample sunlight, temperature, humidity, and nutrition. If you notice pests or nutrient deficiencies, use natural solutions to address the problem. Have fun and enjoy your bountiful harvest!
