Setup, Compatibility & Care
Sowing Indoors (February-April):
- Fill a module seed tray with compost.
- Water the compost well.
- Sow seeds individually, covering them with approximately 1 cm (½ in) of fine compost.
- Place the tray in a propagator or cover with cling film and keep in a warm room (18-25°C / 65-75°F).
- Keep the soil consistently moist.
Growing On:
- Once shoots appear, remove any covering (cling film/propagator lid).
- Keep seedlings in a bright location, but shield them from direct sunlight.
- When plants develop 4-6 leaves, transplant them into 9 cm (3½ in) pots.
- Maintain a minimum temperature of 15°C (60°F).
- Pinch out the growing tip of each plant to encourage bushier growth.
Planting Out:
- Once roots are visible at the bottom of the 9 cm pots, transplant them into 25 cm (10 in) containers.
- Place containers in a greenhouse, on a sunny windowsill, or a sheltered patio location.
- Note that stems may require staking or other support as the plants mature and bear fruit.
Care:
- Watering: Water regularly, ensuring the soil does not dry out completely.
- Feeding: Feed weekly with a liquid fertilizer once the fruit begins to swell.
- Handling: Crucially, wear gloves when handling or preparing fruits. Wash hands thoroughly afterward and avoid touching eyes or sensitive skin.
Compatibility: These seeds are suitable for container gardening, greenhouse cultivation, and sunny outdoor spots in suitable climates. They require warm conditions for optimal growth.