How to Plant Chilli Seeds & Grow Healthy Plants

Growing chillies from seed is simple when you create warm, moist, and nutrient-rich conditions from day one. Whether you’re starting mild jalapeños or fiery bird’s eye varieties, success begins with strong germination and gentle early feeding.

Step 1 – Choosing & Preparing Seeds

Select fresh, mature seeds from a reliable source. Soak them in lukewarm water for 6–8 hours before planting — this softens the seed coat and speeds up germination. Avoid very old seeds, as their germination rate drops sharply after two years.

Step 2 – Ideal Germination Conditions

Temperature: 25–30 °C (use a heat mat if indoors).
Light: Bright indirect light, 12–14 hrs per day.
Soil: Fine, free-draining seed mix — moist but never waterlogged.
Depth: Sow 5 mm deep; cover lightly with vermiculite or fine mix.

Seeds usually sprout within 7–14 days. Once the first true leaves appear, move seedlings to a bright spot and reduce humidity gradually.

431793463_402208962498787_2891104271070762246_n (1)

321194287_1155524971612221_1891666066117109885_n (1)

Step 3 – Feeding and Early Care

Once seedlings reach 5–8 cm tall, begin light fertilising. Use
CompleteGrow NPK 20-20-20
at half strength every 10 days to strengthen roots and stems. The balanced ratio supports compact growth without burning delicate roots.

Feed in the morning when leaves are dry.
Always water first to protect new roots.
Keep soil consistently moist — never soggy.

Step 4 – Transplanting Outdoors or to Pots

Transplant once plants have 5–6 true leaves and night temperatures stay above 15 °C. Space them 40–50 cm apart in a sunny, sheltered area. Chillies love warmth and well-drained soil with pH 6.0–6.8.

Add compost or quality potting mix, and keep them out of direct harsh wind. Water deeply twice a week until established.

For container growing, use 25–30 cm pots and feed regularly, as nutrients leach out faster than in garden soil.

292507747_145782608108791_9161686574758750401_n (1)

431795868_374665972029283_1969518336101419710_n

Step 5 – Caring for Established Chilli Plants

Once plants begin to flower, swap to a fruit-focused fertiliser such as
CompleteGrow Advanced 4-18-38 + Calcium & Magnesium.
This promotes abundant blooms, thicker pod walls, and deep colour. Feed every 7–10 days through summer and keep soil evenly moist.

Prune light shoots to encourage side growth.
Harvest frequently to trigger new flowers.
Mulch 2–3 cm thick to stabilise moisture and temperature.

FAQs — Growing Chillies from Seed

How long do chilli seeds take to germinate? Typically 7–14 days in 25–30 °C warmth.
Why won’t my chilli seeds sprout? Temperatures below 20 °C or soggy mix often delay germination — keep it warm and barely moist.
When should I start fertilising? After the first true leaves appear, using half-strength 20-20-20.
How much sun do chillies need? At least 6 hours daily; more sunlight = stronger flavour and hotter pods.
How often should I water? 2–3 times per week, depending on temperature. Avoid letting soil dry completely.
When to switch fertiliser? Move from 20-20-20 to 4-18-38 as soon as buds appear.

Following this routine — warm soil, balanced feeding, and consistent moisture — ensures chillies stay strong, flower reliably, and deliver steady harvests from early summer to autumn.