GardenHow to grow chilli
मिर्च. When to sow it in each part of India, how deep, how far apart, what size of pot, and what to watch for.
When to sow
North and central plainsMay and June, November to January
South and coastal IndiaJanuary and February, May and June, September and October
HillsMarch to May
Green months are the usual sowing or planting time. Dates shift by a few weeks from place to place.
How to sow and grow
- Method
- Raise seedlings in a tray or small pot and move them when they have 4 to 6 leaves, after about 4 to 5 weeks.
- Depth
- 0.5 cm
- Spacing
- 45 cm
- In a pot
- One plant in a pot 25 to 30 cm wide and deep
- Sprouts in
- 7 to 14 days
- Harvest
- 60 to 90 days after transplanting
- Sun
- Full sun: at least 6 hours a day
Tips from the garden
- Chilli seed is slow. Keep the tray warm and moist and do not give up before two weeks.
- Pinch out the growing tip once when the plant is about 15 cm tall. It branches and bears more.
- Let the soil surface dry between waterings. Chillies dislike wet feet.
What can go wrong
Leaves that curl and crinkle are usually the work of thrips or mites. Spray the undersides of the leaves with neem oil solution in the evening, once a week for three weeks.
Sown around the same time
TomatoBrinjalCapsicumOkra (bhindi)Bottle gourd (lauki)Bitter gourd (karela)Ridge gourd (tori)Cucumber
New to growing from seed? Read how to sow seeds and the balcony and terrace garden guide.
Questions people ask
When is chilli sown in north India?
In the plains of north and central India, the usual sowing or planting months for chilli are May and June, November to January.
How long does chilli take to grow?
Usually 60 to 90 days after transplanting.
Can chilli be grown in a pot?
Yes. One plant in a pot 25 to 30 cm wide and deep.