🌶️ Chilli 'Scotch Bonnet'

Sowing window (UK)	January to March
Minimum soil temperature	21°C at seed depth
Sowing depth	1 cm
Spacing	50 cm apart
Days to germination	14 days
Days to harvest	180 days
Sowing method	Start under cover, transplant out
Frost hardy	No
Sun	full-sun
Watering	moderate
Plant family	Solanaceae

When should I sow Chilli 'Scotch Bonnet' in the UK?

In the UK, sow Chilli 'Scotch Bonnet' from January to March. It is normally started under cover and transplanted. Wait until the soil has reached 21°C at seed depth rather than going by the calendar - chilli will sit and rot in cold ground.

What soil temperature does Chilli 'Scotch Bonnet' need to germinate?

Chilli 'Scotch Bonnet' needs a minimum soil temperature of 21°C at seed depth to germinate reliably. Below that, germination is slow and patchy, and seed is more likely to rot than sprout. Measure at around 5cm down, in the morning, rather than trusting air temperature.

How deep and how far apart should I sow Chilli 'Scotch Bonnet'?

For Chilli 'Scotch Bonnet', sow it 1cm deep and space plants 50cm apart.

How long does Chilli 'Scotch Bonnet' take to grow?

Chilli 'Scotch Bonnet' takes roughly 180 days from sowing to harvest. Seed usually germinates in about 14 days.

Is Chilli 'Scotch Bonnet' frost hardy?

No. Chilli 'Scotch Bonnet' is not frost hardy. Do not put it outside until the risk of frost has passed in your area, and be ready to fleece it if a late frost is forecast.

Sowing data cross-checked against RHS growing guides and UK seed-merchant catalogues. Soil temperatures are the minimum for reliable germination, measured at seed depth.