Winter-Proof Your Chillies: The Ultimate Guide

Introduction

In New Zealand, we are blessed with a temperate climate that lends itself well to growing a variety of chilli plants. But, as winter approaches, so does the risk of losing these productive plants to frost or cold temperatures. Overwintering is the practice of protecting your chilli plants during the winter months, ensuring they survive and continue to produce into the following year. In this blog post, we will discuss some helpful tips and a guide for overwintering your chilli plants in New Zealand, so you can enjoy a continuous supply of fiery fruits all year round.

Choose the right chilli variety

When it comes to overwintering, not all chilli plants are created equal. Some varieties are better suited to survive the colder months than others. In New Zealand, varieties like Jalapeño, Habanero, and Scotch Bonnet are popular choices for overwintering due to their hardiness and adaptability. Opting for these varieties will increase your chances of successful overwintering.

Transplant into containers

Chilli plants that are grown in containers have a higher likelihood of surviving the winter months. When temperatures begin to drop, transfer your plants into large pots (at least 30cm in diameter) if they aren't already potted. Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix to ensure your plants receive adequate nutrients. This will make it easier to move them to a protected location when the time comes.

Prune your plants

Before the first frost hits, it's essential to prune your chilli plants. Cut back the plant by about half its size, ensuring you remove any remaining fruits or flowers. Pruning not only reduces the plant's size, making it easier to manage indoors but also helps to concentrate the plant's energy on new growth in the spring.

Move plants to a sheltered location

Once the temperatures consistently fall below 10°C, it's time to move your chilli plants to a sheltered location. A garage, shed, or conservatory with a heater can provide the necessary protection from the cold. Ideally, your chosen location should maintain a temperature between 10-15°C. Too much heat can cause the plants to continue growing, which can weaken them in the long run.

Monitor light and humidity

Chilli plants require plenty of light, even during the winter months. Position your plants near a south-facing window, or provide supplemental lighting with a grow light. Aim for at least 6-8 hours of light per day. It's also important to maintain a relatively high humidity level. Place a tray of water near the plants or use a humidifier to ensure the humidity remains around 50-60%.

Water and feed sparingly

During the winter months, your chilli plants will enter a dormant phase. As a result, they will require less water and nutrients. Water your plants sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can ultimately kill your plants. Additionally, avoid fertilising during this period, as it can encourage new growth that will be too tender to survive the colder temperatures.

Inspect for pests

Overwintering your chilli plants indoors can expose them to a variety of pests, such as aphids and spider mites. Regularly inspect your plants for any signs of infestation and treat them promptly with an appropriate insecticide or organic solution.

Prepare for spring

As winter comes to an end and temperatures begin to rise, gradually acclimate your chilli plants to the outdoors. Start by placing them in a sheltered spot for a few hours each day, gradually increasing the duration o 1-2 weeks. This will help your plants adjust to the outdoor conditions and prevent shock. Once the threat of frost has passed and nighttime temperatures remain above 10°C, you can safely transplant your chilli plants back into your garden or leave them in their containers outdoors.

In conclusion

Overwintering your chilli plants in New Zealand is a rewarding process that allows you to enjoy a continuous harvest of fiery fruits throughout the year. By selecting hardy varieties, transplanting them into containers, providing adequate shelter, light, and humidity, and monitoring for pests, you can ensure the survival and success of your chilli plants during the winter months. So, go ahead and give it a try this season, and watch your chilli plants thrive all year round!