Which chillies to grow

The unusual 'scarred' skin of Jalapeno 'Summer Heat' is a desired trait of Mexican Jalapenos which are commonly used on pizzas for their pungent, hot flavour. This very dwarf variety was specially bred for growing on a windowsill or in patio containers, where it makes an attractive plant for edible or ornamental use with its upright red peppers.

A mix of Caribbean 'Habenero' red and orange, plus yellow and red 'Scotch Bonnets' - so not for the faint hearted. The rounded fruits ripen from green to red and have a fiery pungency at maturity.

Ideal for growing in the greenhouse or on a sunny patio outside. This 'Hungarian Hot Wax' hybrid, produces early bumper crops over a long season on compact plants. The chillies are large, smooth skinned, and a pale lime-green in colour, turning red as they ripen.

For more growing tips read our fruit and vegetable growing guides. The opinions expressed are those of the author and are not held by Saga unless specifically stated. Refer to our Planting Calendar for when to plant and harvest chillies in your region. If sowing from seed, chilli seeds are best raised under glass or indoors in spring, as it needs a high temperature to germinate. Sow in trays in spring and summer. Once the seedlings are at least 5cm tall, prick out into pots or transplant into the garden.

Like building a house a good foundation is the key to success in your garden. The better the soil, the better your plants will grow. Chillies prefer a rich, fertile soil. If you are starting with an existing garden bed dig in organic matter like Tui Sheep Pellets and Tui Compost to your soil. Then you can add a layer of Tui Vegetable Mix.

If planting in pots and containers, fill with Tui Vegetable Mix. Always water plants well before and after planting. How far to plant your chillies apart in rows depends on the variety, but on average 30cm seems to work for most types. Chillies don't require a lot of root room, and as long as the soil is 20cm deep they should flourish. Feed your plants and they will feed you. Plants use nutrients from the soil as they grow, so replenishing the nutrients ensures your plants grow to their full potential.

Select a fertiliser specially blended for your crop like Tui Vegetable Food. Keep the soil moist throughout the growing season. While your chillies are growing regularly apply a dose of Tui Organic Seaweed Plant Tonic to give them a welcome boost. Well watered, well nourished chillies will have a better chance of keeping insect pests and diseases at bay.

Mark Diacono grows edibles, both usual and unusual, at Otter Farm in Devon — www. Credit: Alamy Mark Diacono explains why mint is for even the incurably incompetent horticultural enthusiast. Mark Diacono hasn't eaten a fresh apricot from a supermarket in years — here are his tips on how to grow. Home Gardens Expert Gardening Tips. Chilli plants are beautiful as well as productive. Credit: Alamy Stock Photo. Credit: Alamy. Mark Diacono explains why mint is for even the incurably incompetent horticultural enthusiast.