Chilly Chili

Pepper

Zone 13b Save Garden

🌱 75d to harvest Bush

A cascade of glossy, upright peppers brings a vivid, crackling heat to the garden—fruits ripen from deep green to a fiery, warm r…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Nov 13th
Last Frost	Jan 1st
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Feb 26th
Harvest Begins	May 12th
Harvest Ends	—

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	75
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Bush
Support Needed	Stake
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	80
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	10

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease problem is most likely on Capsicum annuum (chilly chili), and how can I control it?

Look for aphids and mites, which quickly stunt Capsicum annuum and can leave curled, sticky leaves. Spray plants with a strong jet of water to knock pests off, then apply insecticidal soap (especially under leaves) every 5–7 days for 2–3 rounds if you still see activity. If you notice spreading leaf spots with wet-looking margins, remove affected leaves and avoid overhead watering to slow foliar disease development.

How often should I water Capsicum annuum during the main growing phase (after transplanting)?

During active growth, keep the root zone consistently moist but not soggy—aim for watering when the top 1 inch of soil dries out. In full sun, this is often about 2–3 times per week, but adjust so water reaches 6–8 inches deep rather than just wetting the surface. Reduce watering slightly once peppers are sizing up to prevent watery fruit and encourage fuller ripening, while still avoiding dry spells.

How do I tell when Capsicum annuum (chilly chili) is ready to harvest?

Harvest when pods have reached their mature size and the skin is firm and glossy, typically around 75 days after sowing (faster if started early indoors). Color change matters less than firmness and full length/diameter—pick peppers that snap or break cleanly from the plant. For hotter, fully ripened flavor, leave them on until they deepen to their mature color; for a milder taste, harvest earlier when still green.

A cascade of glossy, upright peppers brings a vivid, crackling heat to the garden—fruits ripen from deep green to a fiery, warm red with a sleek, lantern-like sheen. Chilly Chili’s slender, tapered pods feel crisp and firm at maturity, holding their snap and color beautifully for display and dried use. Grow it for bold ornamental impact and a lively, peppery kick that enlivens every arrangement from patio pots to sunny borders.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 60°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 10 days first.

Expert Note

Start indoors with warm bottom heat for reliable germination, then transplant only when both soil is ≥60°F and nighttime temperatures are consistently warm to avoid stunting.