Re: [CH] Windowsill peppers and what to do with them
Robert Opersteny (docpepr@ccwip.net)
Sat, 28 May 2011 10:53:35 -0500
They are probably looking for more root space right now, and also tend to
dry-out rather quickly, even wilt, when sun and wind are stressing them.
It is generally recommended that you increase pot size whenever there are
roots showing at bottom drainage holes, but, if you want faster fruit, then
only re-pot up to 2" taller and wider than previous pot. This because
plants root, then shoot-up and start production of fruit when they have
filled the root-space.
Jalapenos that are flowering now in 2" pots will appear to stop growing for
a week or so, that will start to add leaves and flower again.
You are limited with the windowbox, so you may want to add a 2 "+ high tray
that will fit under the biggest size pots you can get in the box.
The tray will hold overflow water and nutrients longer so they will not wilt
as much between waterings, and can also serve as a "hydroponic" reservoir to
allow more stable roots outside the pot when fully grown. You can get
almost twice the size plants with a reservoir, but when water stands for
more than a few days, make sure there is adequate drainage at bottom of pot,
using lava rock, ceramic pellets, or small pot shards. You can add an
bubbler for extra oxygen at the roots, or even an automatic waterer to go
more hydroponic; just make sure the water does not go stagnant, and is easy
to maintain.
To increase useable light, use white or light-colored reflective materials
around the sides of the windowbox.
You may find you can grow excellent peppers, even in a NYC high-rise!
Good Luck!
Bob Opersteny
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Is there a good source that specifically answers my questions or do any
of you growers out there have some guidance on this. I'm sure that the
$8 I have invested so far (plus whatever else on new pots, soil, food)
could have bought a whole lot of really fine peppers when they show up
at my greenmarket later this year, but here I am and I don't want to
watch these guys dwindle away without giving it my best.
Oh yeah, I am in NYC and the windowsill that they are on gets several
hours of sun at this point but is not in full sun the entire day.
Regards,
Peter H.