Question: I planted Hatch Chile seeds from seed 3 weeks ago they are only 1 1/4" tall... why are they not growing faster?
Peppers can take some time to get growing, give them time and be patient. Keeping them warm helps! Chile pepper seedlings thrive when temperatures are warm. Being sensitive to the cold, ideal temperatures are 70°F to 80°F during the day, and 60°F to 70° F at night.
But don't worry if your pepper seedlings are taking some time to grow larger, they don't usually take off right away, which is why we start them earlier than other faster growing plants like tomatoes.
But don't worry if your pepper seedlings are taking some time to grow larger, they don't usually take off right away, which is why we start them earlier than other faster growing plants like tomatoes.
Also, be sure not to overwater them! Overwatering can stunt and kill pepper seedlings, they don't like constantly soggy feet! If your chile seedlings are turning yellow and looking unhappy, overwatering may be the culprit! Read more about Why pepper plants areturning yellow »
Lastly, be sure they have adequate light. Any regular old standard fluorescent white light will do the trick, or try out the newer LED growing lights. You don't need any fancy or expensive lights to start seeds. But a sunny window will not usually suffice as the days are shorter and the light from the window is not usually adequate. Pepper seedlings should receive roughly 12 to 16 hours of light a day. Can seedlings get too much light?
Also, once sprouted, air circulation can help keep your pepper seedlings healthier and grow stockier. Use a fan or brush your seedlings with your hands to stimulate them to grow thicker stems and not get leggy.
Learn more about how to prevent Leggy Seedlings »
Learn more about how to prevent Leggy Seedlings »
