However, winter plays an important role in the gardening cycle. If you want to make the most of the winter, consider the following: Keep them in full sun as you would your spring compost pile. Be sure to turn them to expedite the process, to allow the materials to generate heat. Maintain a solid 50/50 mixture of green and brown materials. Your insulated can won’t compost as quickly in winter as in spring or summer, you should ensure the temperature in the can stays above freezing. The materials inside will continue to decompose. Temperatures are also very important. You might consider investing in heat growing lamps to provide proper temperatures. Be sure to water every other day, keeping the soils slightly moist or as needed according to your plant type. Fertilize the soil and give the plants plenty of sunlight. Specifically to chili peppers, you can plant your seeds in small containers as you would prepare them for spring, fertilize and keep them moist and keep in a warm windowsill. More information on growing chili peppers from seeds here. Of course if you live in warmer states of the US, your growing opportunities will be greater for winter gardening, but that does not preclude those in colder climes. Everyone can enjoy some form of gardening in the winter. We asked a number of gardening experts for tips on winter gardening as it relates to chili peppers, and we’re happy to share their knowledge with you. Of course you could always try your own makeshift greenhouse, like our friend Mike Lieberman from New York City, a self-taught organic vegetable grower. The total cost to build the greenhouse was $0 since I used all materials that I had lying around my apartment. I was also able to cover two of the containers with one bag. The tomato plant was left uncovered because I don’t have a bag nearly large enough to cover that beast.
An Interview with Dr. James Edward Brown, College of Agriculture, Home Economics and Allied Programs at the Fort Valley State University An Interview with Nicholas Walker, Lifestyle Designer / Landscaper / Author
Learn more about growing chili peppers here - A Guide to Growing Chili Peppers.
Growing Chili Peppers from Seed Growing Chili Peppers in the Ground Growing Chili Peppers Indoors Growing Chili Pepper Plants in Pots Harvesting Your Chili Peppers Winter Gardening for Chili Peppers and more
