In the process of planting chili seedlings , factors such as climate, soil, and variety must be considered to ensure their growth. So, what is the best month to plant chili seedlings? Let's find out below.
What month is the best to plant chili seedlings?
In northern regions, where the climate is colder, chili seedlings can be planted around May. In southern regions, where the climate is warmer, seedlings can be planted around March or April. At this time, rainfall is moderate and soil moisture is suitable, making it ideal for chili growth and development.
Chili seedling planting methods
1. Land preparation and fertilization
After tilling the land , apply 4000 kg of compost, 50 kg of phosphate fertilizer, and 10-15 kg of potassium fertilizer per acre as base fertilizer. When the chili seedlings have 8 leaves, they are ready for transplanting. Water the seedling soil thoroughly one day before transplanting. When lifting the seedlings, minimize root damage and retain as much soil as possible; handle them gently. Plant in rows 33-50 cm apart and at least 33 cm apart, with 2-3 seedlings per planting hole.
2. Seedling Management
Chili seedlings require little water during their seedling stage, and can be watered every 5 to 7 days. Overwatering can easily lead to excessive growth of the seedlings, and in low ambient temperatures, it can also cause root rot, leading to seedling death. Fertilizer is usually not applied during the seedling stage. If the seedlings are growing weakly, a small amount of urea can be applied as top dressing, followed by watering to prevent root burn.
3. Water and fertilizer management
Chili peppers have underdeveloped root systems and are neither drought-tolerant nor waterlogging-tolerant. Water sparingly during the seedling stage and more frequently during fruit enlargement. Chili seedlings recover 7-10 days after transplanting. If the plants are weak 20 days after transplanting, apply 7 kg of urea per acre. During the flowering and fruiting period, chili peppers have high nutrient requirements; apply 20 kg of compound fertilizer per acre and spray with 0.3% potassium dihydrogen phosphate every 10 days to effectively increase yield.
4. Prevent flowers and fruits from falling off
Excessively high or low temperatures are the main factors causing flower and fruit drop in chili peppers. Too much nitrogen fertilizer, overly dense planting, and insufficient sunlight can also lead to this problem. Spraying a 25-30 ppm solution of p-chlorophenoxyacetic acid (PCPA) during the flowering period can be effective in preventing flower drop.
