How to Grow Green Chillies at Home

A Complete Guide to Growing Green Chillies at Home — From an Agricultural Engineer

Hello! I’m an agricultural engineer, and in this article, I’m going to teach you step by step how to grow green chillies indoors. This guide is designed in a way that even if you have no gardening experience, you can start today. I’ve also included photos and videos I’ve personally taken to make sure no step is unclear for you.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Variety

The first step is choosing the type of chilli you want to grow. Some popular varieties suitable for indoor growing include:

• Jalapeño: Mild heat, easy to grow

• Serrano: Hotter than Jalapeño

• Thai Chilli: Very hot, for the adventurous!

• Cayenne: Medium heat, great for drying

To start, I recommend Jalapeño or Serrano as they are both tasty and easier to care for.

Step 2: Starting from Seeds or Seedlings

From Seeds:

1. Timing: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost (for example, late winter).

2. Seed trays: Use seed-starting trays or small pots.

3. Soil: Use lightweight seed-starting mix.

4. Depth: Sow seeds about 5 mm deep.

5. Temperature: A warm environment (21–27°C) is key. You can use a heat mat.

6. Watering: Keep the soil moist, not soggy.

From Seedlings:

• Buy healthy, pest-free seedlings from a trusted nursery or garden center.

• Look for green leaves, strong stems, and healthy roots.

Step 3: Providing Ideal Growing Conditions

Light:

• Chillies need at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Use grow lights if needed.

• Rotate pots regularly for even light exposure.

Soil:

• Use well-draining potting mix enriched with organic matter.

• Add compost or aged manure.

• Ideal pH: between 6 and 7.

Watering:

• Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry.

• Reduce watering in cooler seasons.

• Always water deeply.

Temperature:

• Ideal range: 21–29°C

• Protect from frost or cold drafts.

Fertilizer:

• Use liquid fertilizer every 2–3 weeks (vegetable or pepper-specific).

• Fertilizers rich in phosphorus are great for better yields.

Step 4: Transplanting to Pots or Outdoors

Indoors:

• Choose pots at least 20 cm (5 gallons) in size.

• Make sure they have proper drainage holes.

Outdoors:

• After frost ends, harden seedlings over one week.

• Space plants 45–60 cm apart.

Step 5: Pest and Disease Management

Common Pests:

• Aphids, whiteflies, spider mites – Use insecticidal soap or neem oil.

• Natural predators like ladybugs can help.

Common Diseases:

• Blossom-end rot, powdery mildew, damping-off –

  • Proper watering and air circulation help prevent these.

  • Use organic fungicides if necessary.

Step 6: Harvesting Your Chillies

• Harvest when chillies reach full size and feel firm.

• Use scissors or your hand to snip them off the plant.

• Regular harvesting encourages more fruiting.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can grow fresh, healthy green chillies right in your home. I’ve explained everything in simple terms, supported by photos and videos I’ve personally prepared, so you can succeed just like I did.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I water my plants?
When the top layer of soil is dry. Overwatering can cause root rot.

What’s the best fertilizer?
Balanced or pepper-specific fertilizers. Those high in phosphorus help with fruiting.

How do I manage pests?
Inspect regularly and use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ladybugs are also helpful.

How long does it take to harvest?
Around 60–90 days after transplanting.

Can I grow chillies year-round indoors?
Yes! As long as you have enough light (natural or grow lights).