THE GREENHOUSE

Chillies need light and heat more than anything. Just remember where they grow naturally!
So, the greenhouse should be sited away from shady areas such as overhanging trees and walls.
The greenhouse should be clean and sterile to start with. Little nasties such as bugs and diseases can hide over winter so a good sterilization is advisable at the end of November when the harvest has finished. Hose the inside thoroughly to remove algae and moss etc. Then spray with either a bleach or Jeyes Fluid solution. Stand well back as the fumes can be strong. Shut the door and leave for a couple of days before re-entering.

Next, it is advisable to have some staging to work on, and on which to grow the chilli plants. If money is no object, then buy a nice one from the Garden Centre. Otherwise, a knock up will do just as well.

Although light and heat are needed, too much fierce sunlight can scorch the plants as can excessive heat which can occur on the odd hot day in July. Therefore, it is advisable to line the inside of the greenhouse with bubblewrap. This will limit the suns rays and also insulate it from the cold night air. Ventilation is also required to let out excessive heat, so a roof vent is the solution here.
Remember that even a sunny day in March can give rise to hot temperatures inside so the roof vent is important.

HOME | INTRODUCTION | CHOOSING VARIETIES | THE GREENHOUSE | TEMPERATURE CONTROL | SOWING THE SEEDS | GROWING ON | FEEDING | PESTS AND DISEASES | HARVESTING | PRESERVING | ENJOYING | USEFUL SITES | RECIPES | PHOTO GALLERY |