Shishito peppers
Thin-walled Japanese frying peppers, mostly mild and prolific under cover.
Shishito peppers seeds
£2.49 in the shop
Calendar
Sow
February–March indoors with warmth
Plant out
Harvest green while slender and glossy to encourage more fruit.
Harvest
July–October
Conditions
Sun
Full sun, 6–8 hours a day
Water
Keep compost consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging. Water more frequently in hot weather.
Soil
Rich, free-draining, pH 6.0–6.8
Spacing
45cm between plants
Containers
Good in large containers (min. 20-30cm diameter) or grow bags.
Indoors
Essential for good yields in the UK, especially in cooler regions. Greenhouse or conservatory is ideal.
Care and harvest
Feeding
Once fruits begin to set, feed weekly with a high-potash tomato feed.
Pruning
Pinch out the growing tip when plants are 15-20cm tall to encourage bushier growth. Remove the 'king flower' (first flower) to encourage more fruit production.
Harvesting
Harvest green while slender and glossy to encourage more fruit.
Storage
Store in the fridge for up to 1-2 weeks.
Good companions: Basil, Carrots, Onions, Spinach