Chilli Mixed

• Chillies originated in Central and South America, spreading globally through trade routes and becoming essential in cuisines worldwide.
• These heat-loving plants are actually perennial in frost-free climates, though commonly grown as annuals in cooler regions.
• The mixed variety collection offers diverse capsaicin levels, from sweet bell-type peppers to scorching hot varieties measuring thousands on the Scoville scale.
• Popular with home cooks and gardeners for their ornamental value, featuring colourful fruits in red, yellow, orange, and purple hues.
• Fresh chillies contain high levels of vitamin C and capsaicin, which provides both heat and potential health benefits.

• Water 2-3 times weekly during growing season, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings, reducing to weekly in winter.
• Position in full sun locations receiving 6+ hours direct sunlight daily for maximum fruit production.
• Plant in well-draining potting mix or garden soil enriched with compost and organic matter.
• Feed fortnightly with balanced liquid fertiliser during growing season, switching to low-nitrogen, high-potassium fertiliser when flowering begins.
• Pinch flowers for first 6 weeks to establish strong plant structure, then allow flowering and fruiting.
• Harvest fruits regularly when fully coloured to encourage continued production throughout the season.

• Provide full sun for at least 6-8 hours daily for best fruit production and plant vigour.
• Water deeply when top 2cm of soil feels dry, maintaining consistent moisture without waterlogging. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
• Plant in well-draining, fertile soil with pH 6.0-7.0, adding compost or aged manure before planting.
• Maintain temperatures between 18-30°C for optimal growth, protecting from frost and cold winds below 10°C.
• Pinch growing tips when plants reach 20cm tall to encourage bushy growth and more fruit production.

• Aphids cluster on new growth and leaves, causing yellowing and stunted growth. Spray with soapy water or neem oil weekly until cleared.
• Whiteflies create sticky honeydew and weaken plants by sucking sap. Use yellow sticky traps and insecticidal soap treatments.
• Overwatering causes root rot, leading to wilting despite moist soil. Reduce watering frequency and improve drainage immediately.
• Blossom end rot appears as dark, sunken spots on fruit tips due to inconsistent watering. Maintain even soil moisture and add calcium to soil.
• Spider mites cause fine webbing and stippled leaves in hot, dry conditions. Increase humidity and spray undersides of leaves with water.