When to Plant Chillies in the UK

Chillies need warm conditions to grow well, so they are usually started indoors early in the year and planted outside later in spring. Planting at the right time helps plants grow steadily and produce fruit during summer.

Chillies are usually grown from seed started indoors.

Starting chilli seeds

Chilli seeds are often started indoors between January and March.

Seeds need warmth to germinate.

Young plants grow slowly at first.

Moving chillies outside

Chillies are usually moved outdoors or into greenhouses in late spring, once frost risk has passed.

Warm, sheltered locations usually produce the best results.

Plants grow faster once temperatures rise.

Growing chillies in containers

Chillies can be planted in containers filled with compost.

For container advice, see growing chillies in containers.

Planning the chilli growing season

Chillies planted in spring usually produce fruit in summer and early autumn.

Warm weather helps fruits develop properly.

For growing advice, see how to grow chillies in the UK.