Tree chillies (bot Capsicum pebescens) can grow quite large in contrast to other chili plants. They can reach up to four meters in height. As a container plant, it is then no longer easy to handle. A pruning can be very helpful.
The tree chili can grow up to four meters tall if left unchecked
When can I cut back my tree chilli?
Since the tree chillies are not hardy, suitable winter quarters may be difficult to find. This is where pruning can help. However, it makes more sense to cut back the plant in the spring after it has hibernated, ideally even in February. Then it sprouts abundantly at the beginning of the vegetation phase and can carry a good harvest.
If your tree chilli has grown very strongly in summer so that you cannot find a suitable winter quarters for the plant, you can of course cut back in autumn. Give the plant a nice shape and adjust the size to your needs. Tree chillies are usually relatively easy to cut.
Regular pruning is not absolutely necessary for tree chillies, but it can help to achieve a better harvest. If the crown of the tree chili is too dense, the plant often produces fewer of the tasty, hot fruits. In this case, thin out the crown a bit by cutting back some branches.
What should I consider when cutting?
To ensure that your tree chilli survives the pruning, you should definitely use clean and sharp tools for it. It is best to cut branches close to the trunk or branch so that no long ends remain. Such places are good entry points for diseases or pests.
The essentials in brief:
- Pruning is possible, but not absolutely necessary
- best time: February, before new growth
- Pruning promotes fruiting and a rich harvest
- Thin out a crown that is too dense
tips
If your tree chilli bears little fruit despite good care, then carefully examine the crown. If it is very dense, thin it out a bit.