Growing Chilli

Chilli plants are small to medium sized shrubs that are grown worldwide for their culinary use. These short lived perennials enjoy growing in warm temperatures. While the plants despise cold weather they can be successfully over-wintered, particularly when grown in pots and moved into a sheltered location such as a greenhouse in the cooler months.  

Chilli plants boast attractive dark green foliage and produce an abundance of delicate flowers which very quickly set fruit. The fruit grows in a variety of shapes and colours, from deep greens and purples to vibrant shades of red, orange, yellow. Their flavour and heat levels are diverse, ranging from very mild to fire burning hot! 

When planting Chillies, the soil should be well draining and rich in organic matter. The plants do not fare well in heavy clay or water logged soils. To ensure great fruit production, plants should be grown in a full sun position, in soil that has been enriched with good quality compost, organic fertiliser and seaweed solution. Keep the soil moist, but not wet, particularly while the fruit is developing.  

Chilli plants will begin flowering in spring and will fruit right throughout the summer months. In warm, frost free climates, plants will continue fruiting well into autumn. Harvest the fruit regularly to encourage continuous production. At the end of the growing season, prune back the plant to remove old and tired branches and to encourage fresh new growth for the following season. 

Chilli plants are sold right across the globe for their ornamental value as well as their incredible flavour profile, there are countless varieties to choose from all with their own unique look and unique flavour!

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