When we hear peppers, we think of green, yellow, and red pods. However, this notion is only partially correct. Paprika refers to different varieties of the genus Capsicum. These include peppers as well as chili and hot peppers. It doesn't matter which pod - patience is required when sowing peppers.

Sow peppers at the right time

Sowing peppers before the beginning of March is not worth it. With a lack of brightness, the seedlings form weak shoots, the cotyledons of which suffer from a lack of chlorophyll. That means they lapse. Correct timing is therefore important .

Anyone who sows peppers in the greenhouse or on the windowsill in good time has several advantages. The plants set flowers earlier and deliver pods that are ready for harvest faster. In addition, the pepper seedlings are protected from wind, weather and snail attacks. And there is still enough time for the plants to grow until they reach maturity in autumn. Fast-growing and early-ripening varieties such as:

  • Capsicum annum
  • cayenne
  • jalapeno

What do you need to sow peppers?

  • Sowing trays or growing pots (16.68€)
  • Potting soil or substrate
  • viable pepper seeds
  • Mini watering can or spray bottle
  • Mini greenhouse or foil

The best start for pepper sowing

You can use yogurt pots or pots made from peat or egg cartons. Compostable containers are particularly practical because the young plants can be planted directly later without damaging the root balls. Special seed soil is suitable for filling the containers. This is finer and less nutritious than potting soil and activates root growth.

The substrate should be damp but not soaking wet. Sow peppers in doses by placing 1 to 3 pepper seeds in each container. Peppers are not easy germinators but dark germinators. Therefore cover the seed thinly with sifted soil and spray with warm water.

To ensure the necessary warm, humid climate, place the seedlings in a greenhouse or covered with foil in a south-facing window. If the window sill is cold, place a heating mat under the seed. The ideal soil temperature for germination is 25° degrees. Now air the pepper seedlings briefly every day to avoid mold growth. And then? Just wait and see;-).

What to do when the first seedlings sprout?

The germination time depends on the quality and external conditions such as light, temperature and humidity. 3 to 4 weeks later, when the first pair of cotyledons appear, remove the cover. Now it is important to keep the substrate moist without waterlogging. After the last night frosts, you can plant the peppers in the garden. For this purpose, select the optimal location with sufficient planting distance in good time.

tips and tricks

Discard seedlings that are weak or misshapen. They are not suitable for cultivation. Put vigorous young plants outside a few hours longer each day to harden off.

Category:

Vegetable garden