Growing Peppers Indoors – Guidelines & Tips

If you’re looking to expand your garden repertoire, or just have an additional source of year-round veggies, why not try and grow peppers indoors? With thoughtful planning and a little effort, you can grow and harvest peppers in your home. Here are the basic steps and tips for success in growing peppers indoors.

Select the Right Varieties & Plant

Hot or sweet, large or small, there are a multitude of varieties of peppers to choose from. Many peppers have been bred specifically for indoor growing. In general, look for varieties that are compact and disease-resistant. When planting, give peppers three or four feet of space, and make sure to use a well-draining potting mix.

Light & Temperature

Peppers need six to eight hours of light per day, and prefer a temperature of 65 degrees F at night and 75-80 F during the day. Make sure to check your local hardiness zone for more specific temperature recommendations. Place your pepper container in a sunny window or use artificial lighting such as LED lights or high-pressure sodium lamps.

Watering & Feeding

Water regularly, giving your peppers enough to stay moist, but not so much that the soil becomes soggy. Water slowly and gently, allowing the water to soak in and reach the deeper roots. Feed your peppers every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Make sure to follow the instructions on the label for exact amounts.

Pests & Diseases

To keep pests at bay, make sure to practice good hygiene in your indoor garden. Check your plants frequently for signs of pests, such as webs or insect droppings. If you find any, remove them immediately with a cotton ball dipped in rubbing alcohol. Be sure to check for any signs of disease, such as yellowing leaves or wilting. If you see any, look up the type of disease and treat accordingly.

Harvesting & Storage

When your peppers are ripe, they should be picked right away. Take extra care when harvesting, as peppers are fragile and can easily be damaged. Once harvested, peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you have a large crop, you can also event them and freeze them for later use.

Conclusion

Growing peppers indoors can be a fun and rewarding experience. By following these guidelines and tips, you can have a successful crop each season. All that’s left is to get out there and get growing!