Plant out your Chilli this month — conditions are right now.
Growing Calendar
This month: May
Log to journalMove seedlings outside carefully
- •Harden off plants
- •Prepare soil outdoors
- •Space plants correctly
- •Water well after planting
Watch Out For
Aphids cluster on growing tips
check under leaves weekly and spray with dilute soap solution or introduce Aphidius biological controls
Spider mite thrives in hot, dry conditions
mist plants regularly and increase humidity; introduce Phytoseiulus predators if an infestation develops
Cool nights below 15°C cause flowers to drop before setting fruit
keep indoors or in a greenhouse until temperatures are reliably warm
Grown Organically
Every method in this guide works with natural systems — no synthetic chemicals, no shortcuts.
Read our approachCommon Questions
About growing Chilli in the UK
When should I start chilli seeds in the UK?
Start chilli seeds in January to March — they need a long growing season to ripen properly in the UK. Use a heated propagator at 21–25°C. Bottom heat makes a significant difference to germination rates and speed.
Why are my chilli flowers dropping off?
Flower drop is usually caused by low humidity, temperature fluctuations, or water stress. Mist plants regularly, keep temperatures above 15°C at night, and water consistently. Tapping flowers gently to aid pollination can also help.
How hot will my chillies be?
Heat level depends entirely on the variety. Mild: Anaheim, Poblano. Medium: Jalapeño, Hungarian Hot Wax. Hot: Cayenne, Serrano. Very hot: Thai Bird's Eye, Scotch Bonnet. The same variety can vary in heat depending on growing conditions — stressed plants often produce hotter fruit.
Can I overwinter chilli plants?
Yes — chillies are perennial in warm climates. Bring plants indoors before the first frost, cut them back by half, and keep in a light, frost-free spot. Water sparingly through winter. Many plants produce even better in their second year.
Member guides
There's more to growing Chilli than this guide covers.
Seasonal reminders, deeper guides, and the small adjustments that change a harvest.
