Growing Peppers Indoors – Guidelines & Tips
For many, growing peppers indoors is a rewarding and exciting endeavor. With some knowledge and tips, anyone can become a successful indoor pepper gardener. Here are the basics of growing peppers indoors, from choosing the right pepper variety to caring and harvesting the peppers.
Choosing the Right Pepper Variety
When growing peppers indoors, the best option is to choose varieties that are native to inshore climates. Hot pepper varieties such as habanero, jalapeño, and Anaheim peppers are great choices for the cooler temperatures of indoor gardens. Sweet peppers such as bell pepper, pimento, and cherry peppers will also grow well indoors.
Growing Environment
Peppers do best in a warm, sunny area. A south or west-facing window that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight is ideal. If that’s not available, then you will need to supplement with a grow light. The temperature should be kept between 68-85°F for the best results.
Soil and Containers
Peppers require well-draining soil that has plenty of organic matter to hold moisture. Choose a potting soil that is specifically designed for vegetables. For container growing, choose pots that are at least six inches deep with adequate drainage holes. A minimum of eight-inch pots are recommended for larger pepper varieties, such as bell peppers.
Caring for Peppers Indoors
Water regularly, and check the soil often. When the top inch of soil feels dry, it’s time to water again. Use a water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks. The pepper plants will need to be staked or caged to support the fruit when it starts to form.
Harvesting
Harvest peppers when they have reached the desired size and flavor. Peppers can be harvested before they are fully ripe but will not have as much flavor as those left to ripen fully. If hot pepper varieties are left on the plant too long, they will become hotter.
Conclusion
With the right peppers, soil, and environment, anyone can successfully grow pepper indoors. With a few tips and tricks, you can soon have a bounty of fresh and flavorful peppers right at your fingertips.
