Can I put this plant outside?
by
Sarit N.
+4
Hello hometalkers! I need some gardening experts to weigh in on this. I started this Yolo wonder pepper plant from seeds that I got from a friend, and it's grown really well. (I don't normally garden, so I'm very proud of this.) I've kept it indoors next to a windowsill, but it's recently gotten too big to stay on the windowsill, and I don't have any more room for it in my apartment. So, my question is: can I put it outside without killing it? It would be in the full sun for about 7 hours in the morning, and temperatures rise between 85-90 degrees during the day. In your expert opinion, will my plant continue to grow in that climate?
I see no reason why a pepper plant wouldn't be okay outside. If you're going to change to a larger pot or in the ground (I'd keep it in the pot) get you some "Root Booster" and sprinkle lightly around the roots before transplanting. You can usually find it at plant places. It works wonders.
You will need to get the plant acclimated to the sun. Put the plant in a shaded area and move it slowly( several days) to full sun. If you put it in full sun on day 1, the leaves will burn.
If you keep it outside in a large pot, then worst case scenario you can move it around if you think the conditions are too harsh
Your plant will be subjected to bugs if you put it outside,maybe transfer it to a larger pot.
Griffinz suggestion is exactly what you should do. My pepper plants live in 100° plus heat, but I keep them in the shade with morning sun only. Make sure to water well as potted plants dry out quicker. Congratulations on growing your first plant from seed!
I agree with Naomie, Make sure you do put it in a larger pot before you put him out. Try to place him where he will get more morning sun than the harsh afternoon sun, and start him out in the shade to transition him to more and more sun, you don't want to sunburn him right away, he is no different than us humans in getting used to the sun. I have some peppers that get mostly morning sun and some late afternoon sun and they are doing great in the high heat we have been having. Just remember that being outside he will need more water, possibly every day when it is hot.
I reckon it depends on where you live. I live along the Gulf Coast and I've had all sorts of pepper plants live for several years planted in the ground, against and on the west side of my house.