How to grow Chilli Pepper (Super Hot)
in the UK

Chilli peppers, especially these super hots, are a proper challenge on the allotment, like I say, they're not for the faint-hearted. But there's nothing quite like the feeling of growing your own fiery chillies, especially up here in the North East where the weather's not always on our side. They demand a bit of fussing, but the rewards are well worth it, you'll be chuffed.

Sowing

You need to get these seeds going proper early, January, February, or March really, to give them a fighting chance. Sow them indoors, just a few millimetres deep in small pots or modules, then pop them on a heat mat or in a propagator set between 20-27°C. They need grow lights too, to be honest, otherwise they'll get leggy and weak before spring even arrives, you know what I mean. Consistent warmth is key for these fussy buggers right from the start.

Growing on

Once your seedlings have a couple of true leaves, carefully prick them out and pot them on into individual small pots. Keep them warm and well-lit. Now, they're tender plants, so don't even think about planting them outside until all danger of frost is gone, usually mid to late May up here. A greenhouse is definitely their happy place, giving them the heat and shelter they crave, planting them 45-60cm apart. You can grow them in decent-sized pots too, if you're short on space.

Looking after it

Chilli plants like a steady hand with the watering can; don't let them dry out completely, but don't drown them either. Once they start to flower and set fruit, give them a regular feed with a tomato fertiliser every week or two. Pinching out the tops can encourage bushier growth, but with super hots needing such a long season, sometimes it's best just to let them crack on, to be honest.

What goes wrong

Like most greenhouse plants, you've got to keep an eye out for aphids, red spider mites, and whitefly. They just love the warm, sheltered conditions. Regular checks are your best bet; squish what you see, or give them a good spray with some soapy water. A healthy plant is always better at fighting off the nasties, like I say.

Harvest

Your chillies will be ready to pick from August right through to October, once they've reached their full size and proper colour. Always handle these super hots with gloves, even when picking, trust me. You can store them in the fridge for a week or two, freeze them whole, or dry them out to make your own chilli powder. A cracking harvest is a proper joy.