Tips on growing chilli plants - in Britain

Tuesday, August 25 2009 17:26:20 by Editor

The growing popularity of chilli in British cooking has led Nigel Colborn, writing for the Daily Mail, to offer up tips on how to grow them.

According to Mr Colborn, chilli plants are as easy to grow as much more traditionally British foods such as courgettes and tomatoes.

He said: "Chillies are easy and trouble-free. They need full light, well drained soil and a warm, frost-free environment. Though happy if grown in a bed, they are ideal for pot culture.

For those attempting to grow chillies at home, he suggests free-draining compost and heavy waterings throughout the hottest months of the year.

Pruning in late August is recommended so new stems grow in time to flourish in the spring of 2010.

According to Channel4.com chillies react best if grown in a conservatory or greenhouse.