Chili pepper chili Chili peppers (Capsicum spp.) include sweet to very hot varieties. C. annuum typically matures fastest and suits cooler summers; C. chinense (e.g., habanero) and some C. baccatum need a longer, warmer season. In Scandinavia they are best precultivated indoors and grown in greenhouse or a warm, sheltered patio. Plants are technically short-lived perennials but are usually grown as annuals. Night temperatures below 12–14°C and any frost will stall growth and damage plants. Growing conditions LightFull sun; 6–10 hours of direct light daily. Indoors, use strong grow lights. Soil typeWell-drained, fertile, humus-rich loam or high-quality potting mix with added compost and perlite. Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils. Water requirementModerate and consistent. Keep evenly moist but never soggy; allow the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Nutrient requirementMedium to high. Start with balanced nutrients, then shift to high-potassium feed during flowering and fruiting. Back to plant list
