Starting chili seeds indoors

Here are some helpful tips for starting chili sand tomato seeds indoors.

If you are a chili lover and want to grow your own chilies, starting chili seeds indoors is a great way to get started. By starting your seeds indoors, you can control the growing environment, protect the seedlings from pests, and get a head start on the growing season.

Here are some steps to follow when starting chili seeds indoors:

Tip #1 - Choose your chili seeds:

Many varieties of chili seeds are available, so choose the type of chili you want to grow. Make sure to select seeds that are suitable for indoor growing.

Tip #2 - Choose the right container:

Select a container at least 2-3 inches deep with drainage holes. You can use plastic pots, peat pots, or even egg cartons.

Tip #3 - Prepare the soil:

Use a good-quality seed-starting mix or make your own by mixing equal parts of peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite. Moisten the soil but make sure it is not too wet. We use coco coir due to the value and neutral ph/acidity.

Tip #4 - Plant the seeds:

Plant two to three seeds per container, about ¼ inch deep. Cover the seeds with soil and gently press down.

Tip #5 - Provide the right growing conditions:

Place the containers in a warm, sunny location where the temperature is between 70-80°F. Use a seedling heat mat to provide bottom heat if necessary. We've had folks reach out to say they didn't have many or any seeds germinate. Upon some discussion, we found that they didn't have consistently warm soil for their chili seeds. Chili and pepper seeds must have warm soil to "wake up" and grow. Even cooler evenings can stunt and decrease germination. It's best to direct sow in spring if you are in a warmer zone, or start indoors using a germination mat if you are in a shorter zone.

Tip #6 - Water and fertilize:

Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Use a spray bottle to mist the soil when it starts to dry out. Fertilize the seedlings with a diluted liquid fertilizer once a week.

Tip #7 - Thin out the seedlings:

Once the seedlings have sprouted, thin them out by removing the weaker ones, leaving the strongest ones in each container.

Tip #8 - Transplant the seedlings:

When the seedlings have grown to about 3-4 inches tall and have at least two sets of leaves, they are ready to be transplanted into larger containers or into the ground. Remember to harden your seedlings prior to putting them in the ground. You can harden off your plants by following this schedule:

Day 1: Put seedlings outside in a partial sun or shade area for 2-3 hours. Day 2: Put your seeds out in the partial shade for 3 hours. Day 3:Put your seedlings in full sun for 3 hours. Day 4: Put seedlings out in the full sun for 3-4 hours. Day 5: Transplant your seedlings to their permanent spot.

Success with your chili starts

By following these steps, you can successfully start chili seeds indoors and enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious chilies. Remember to provide the right growing conditions and care for your seedlings, and they will reward you with a spicy and flavorful harvest. To view all of the seeds of the chili we offer, click here.