How to Grow Chili Pepper

A warm-season fruiting for the home garden across the warmer US.

Chili Pepper is a rewarding warm-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Plant Chili Pepper in spring once the soil has warmed and all frost has passed. In the warmest regions a second crop is possible in late summer. See your region on the chili pepper page for exact timing.

Varieties

• Datil, Fiery, fruity St. Augustine (FL) heirloom (Florida seed sources)
• Jalapeno, Dependable, productive medium heat (Bonnie Plants)
• Habanero, Thrives in Florida heat and humidity (Baker Creek)

How to grow it

• Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
• Spacing: about 45 cm (18 in) between plants.
• Sowing: barely cover the seed.
• Water: roughly 6 L per plant every 2 days in hot weather.
• Containers: grows well in a pot of 25cm+.

Pests & problems

Watch for Aphids and Thrips. In humid regions, Anthracnose and Blossom end rot can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Chili Pepper is usually ready to harvest in about 3 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant chili pepper where you garden.

See also: Chili Pepper in the plant library →

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