General
Peppers and chillies are botanically the same. When we talk about peppers, we generally mean the mild sweet peppers, like bell peppers or sweet pointed peppers. Together with chillies and aubergines, they need the most warmth to grow and have a very long growing season. That's why they're not suited for outdoor growing, except in areas with a mild wine-growing climate. Some robust varieties can be grown in pots in a sheltered spot on a balcony or patio, though.
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Facts and figures
Times
OutdoorsTransplant to bed from Mid May to Late June. Pre-grow about 60 days before planting out, approximately between Mid March and Late April. After a growing period of 165 days, harvest can begin around Mid August and continues until Late October.
GreenhouseTransplant to bed from Late April to Late June. Pre-grow about 60 days before planting out, approximately between Late February and Late April. After a growing period of 165 days, harvest can begin around Mid July and continues until Mid November.
Sowing and planting
Whether peppers and chillies need darkness or light to germinate depends on the variety. Most varieties are dark germinators, but a few need light to germinate.
Location and soil
Warm and sunny. Ideally in a greenhouse or on a sunny balcony or patio.