「Balcony Vegetable Gardening Video」Chili Peppers
In the city where every square inch is precious, balcony gardening is becoming a new way for urban people to connect with nature. Chili peppers, as star performers among solanaceous plants, not only have a short growth cycle and strong ornamental value but also provide fresh seasonings for the kitchen at any time. This article will unveil the full process skills from seed to harvest.
Detailed Steps for Balcony Chili Pepper Planting
Seedling Key Stage Management
Select plump chili pepper seeds and soak them in 50℃ water for 15 minutes to promote germination. Control the sowing depth to about 0.5cm and keep the substrate moist but not waterlogged. Temperature management is crucial; it is recommended to cover with plastic wrap during the day to maintain 25-30℃, and uncover it at night to maintain a 15℃ temperature difference.
Lighting and Container Selection
When the seedlings have grown 4 true leaves, they need to be transplanted into containers with a diameter of 20cm or more. It is recommended to use red陶 pots with holes in the bottom, combined with a substrate of peat: perlite = 3:1. Ensure 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for south-facing balconies, and rotate the pots regularly for east and west-facing balconies.
Water and Fertilizer Control Secrets
Apply diluted organic liquid fertilizer once a week before flowering, and switch to high-phosphorus and potassium fertilizer during the fruit-setting stage. Use the 'wet-dry' watering method, watering thoroughly when the topsoil 2cm is dry. Spray the leaves with water in the morning and evening during high summer temperatures to prevent flower and fruit drop.
Solutions to Common Problems
Disease and Pest Control
Aphids can be sprayed with garlic extract, and remove diseased leaves immediately when powdery mildew occurs. Regularly prune the lower old leaves to maintain ventilation and light. It is recommended to cover the surface of the potting soil with volcanic rock particles to effectively prevent fungal diseases.
Variety Selection Guide
For small balconies under 5㎡, dwarf varieties like 'Colorful Chili' are suitable, while larger spaces can try ornamental varieties like 'Devil Chili'. Fruit peppers require an extended growth period of 30 days but will have significantly higher sweetness. It is recommended for beginners to start with disease-resistant varieties like 'Hangjiang No.1'.
With three months of careful care, you will harvest strings of bright red chili peppers. Remember to reduce watering during the fruit color change stage to effectively enhance the spiciness. The experience accumulated during the planting process will become valuable assets for creating your own balcony vegetable garden. Start sowing now and let the spicy harvest season begin from your windowsill!