Question
Hi,

I am a new gardener. I planted habanero seeds about 2 1/2 months ago. It took about 2 weeks, but it finally sprouted. However, the plant has grown very little since then. It is only about 1 1/2 inches tall and will not grow more. I live in a condo in South Florida, on the west side of the building, so the plant is in the sun for a little less than half the day. I keep the soil moist most of the time. Recently I also started using Bonnie herb and vegetable plant food at 1 tsp per 1/2 gallon, but the plant has shown no improvement. What am I doing wrong? What would you recommend to help the plant along? Thanks in advance.

Answer
Based on your description, I see two potential problems. First and foremost, peppers require a minimum of 8-12 hours of sunlight per day. The more, the better. Any less will definitely stunt their growth. Secondly, you should only water when the soil dries out 3" below the soil level. Peppers like dry and arid conditions. They only require one inch of water per week. When watering, always water very deeply. Constant shallow watering hurts the plant because the roots reach for the top of the soil. Deep watering causes the roots to go down into the subsoil. Also, if you water too often, the wet soil is depleted of nutrients. Peppers require a high concentration of phosphorus, which should be in the product you are using. Only apply fertilizer once every two weeks. Too much can harm the plants.

In summary, water once per week and very deeply. Allow the soil to dry out between watering. Apply the vegetable fertilizer once every two weeks, and do not exceed the amount per gallon as indicated on the packaging. Finally, mulch the plants with straw or dried grass clippings to cool the soil and retain moisture. This reduces the need to water. And next year, if at all possible, plant the seedlings in an area that gets more sunlight. It is essential for healthy plants and a bountiful harvest.

Good luck, and please write again if I can ever provide assistance.

Regards,

Mike