Spice It Up: Growing Chili Peppers in NYC

Where it Fits in NYC

List all icons of attributes directly under header image above like: container sizes, indoor/outdoor, hydroponic, spaces, click here to get seeds, difficulty, pollinator, cool/warm weather, perennial/annual, best month to plant, best month to harvest, etc.

Why I Grow It

I grow chili peppers because they are incredibly forgiving. As a busy NewYork, peppers don't quit on me if I miss a day of watering. I love that they produce a massive harvest in small containers, giving me the most value for my limited space. I turn my extra peppers into homemade hot sauces, dry them into flakes, or ferment them for a flavor boost. Beyond the kitchen, these plants attract helpful bees to my garden and they brighten up the space. Shishitos for dinner, yes chef.

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Growth Essentials

Light

Chili peppers require 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Indoors: Grow in large pots with bright light or hydroponically using grow lights for 12-14 hours.

Water

Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Indoors, air can dry soil quickly; outdoors, water regularly, and mulch helps retain moisture.

Temperature

Chili peppers are a warm weather crop and thrive in 70-85°F, ideally 75-80°F. Plant outdoors in May-June in NYC zone 7b. Warm temperatures help fruit development.

Containers

Indoors: 10-12" wide, 10" deep, 3 gallons.

‍Outdoors: 10-12" wide, 12" deep, 3-5 gallons

Soil

Chili peppers love well-draining, nutrient-rich potting mix with compost from vegetable peelings or garden compost.

Fertilizer

Use balanced 10-10-10 early and high-phosphorus 5-10-10 during flowering. Organic options: compost, fish emulsion, bone meal. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks for optimal growth.

Harvesting Tips

Remove early flower buds and leggy growth to promote bushier plants. Regular trimming focuses energy on producing healthy, abundant peppers.

Harvest Time

Long: 16-20 Weeks

Red Thai chili peppers growing in a container garden in New York City

Why is my pepper plant wilting?

Why It's Happening:

High-floor winds and heat from NYC buildings dry out pots very fast. If the soil is wet and it's wilting, the roots might be rotting.

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How to Fix It:

Check the soil. If it is dry, give it a deep soak. If it is wet, let it dry out. Adding compost helps the soil hold just the right amount of water.

What are these tiny bugs on the new leaves?

Why It's Happening:

Aphids love the warm, sheltered spots on NYC balconies. They are the most common pest for city peppers.

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How to Fix It:

Buy ladybugs to release on your plants to eat the aphids! You can also wash them off with a strong spray of water or use a mix of water and mild soap.

Why are the leaves turning yellow?

Why It's Happening:

This is usually from too much water or not enough food. NYC humidity can keep pots soggy for too long.

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How to Fix It:

Make sure your pot has holes. Give the plant a balanced 10-10-10 food. Mixing in worm castings provides steady energy to keep leaves green.

Why is my plant growing so slowly?

Why It's Happening:

Peppers need a lot of sun and heat. If tall buildings block the sun for most of the day, the plant will stall.

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How to Fix It:

Move your pot to the sunniest spot you have. Use a 5-10-10 plant food to help the plant focus on growing peppers instead of just leaves.

Why is there white powder on the leaves?

Why It's Happening:

This is Powdery Mildew. It happens because city air is sticky and does not move well between tall buildings.

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How to Fix It:

Do not crowd your plants. Cut off the sick leaves. You can use beneficial nematodes in the soil to keep the root system strong and healthy.

Grows Together With (Companion Planting)

Hand holding freshly harvested basil from a New York City urban garden

Basil

Bundle of freshly harvested chives held in hand in a New York City garden

Chives

Small bouquet of blue bachelor buttons (cornflowers) grown on a New York City balcony garden.

Bachelor Buttons

Red leaf lettuce rosette growing tightly in a New York City garden

Bibb Lettuce

Red and orange marigold flower in full bloom in an urban garden setting

Marigolds

Oregano plant growing vigorously in a container garden

Oregano

Curly parsley harvest held up by hand with the New York City skyline in the background on a rooftop garden

Parsley

Health & Nutrition Spotlight

Chili peppers contain capsaicin, which can boost metabolism and provides a massive dose of Vitamin C, often more than an orange!

Curated Gear For Growing

Mycorrhizal Fungi Soil Booster

Mycorrhizal Fungi Soil Booster

I use this to encourage stronger roots in containers and raised beds. Healthier roots mean more resilient plants and better harvests.

Habanada No-Heat Habanero Pepper Seeds

Habanada No-Heat Habanero Pepper Seeds

I love these peppers because you get the full habanero flavor, fruity and aromatic, without any spice, making them great for experimenting in everyday cooking.

Heatless Jalapeño Pepper Seeds

Heatless Jalapeño Pepper Seeds

This is such a fun pepper, same jalapeño taste with zero heat, making it perfect if you love peppers but not the burn.

Organic Shishito Pepper Seeds

Organic Shishito Pepper Seeds

This is my favorite pepper to grow - easy, incredibly productive, and the germination rate makes this pack a reliable pick.

Organic Hot Pepper Seed Variety Pack for Beginners

This is a great starter pack if you want to explore growing different peppers. Solid variety, reliable germination, and perfect for learning what heat levels you love.

Summer Vegetable & Fruit Seed Variety Starter Pack

Summer Vegetable & Fruit Seed Variety Starter Pack

This is an excellent choice for outdoor gardeners who want to focus on summer crops. You get heat-loving plants that grow fast.

Vegetable Seed Variety Pack for Outdoor Food Gardens

Vegetable Seed Variety Pack for Outdoor Food Gardens

This is a great starter pack for anyone with outdoor space who wants to grow a wide range of food without overthinking seed selection

Heirloom Vegetable Seed Variety Pack for Beginner Gardeners

Heirloom Vegetable Seed Variety Pack for Beginner Gardeners

This is an excellent starter pack if you want to experiment with many crops at once and learn what grows best in your space without overthinking seed selection

Plastic Grow Bags for Seed Starting and Container Gardening

Plastic Grow Bags for Seed Starting and Container Gardening

These come in 1, 2, 3 and 5 gallon sizes - use 5 gallon for tomatoes, squash, and cucumbers, 3 gallon for peppers, and 1–2 gallon for basil, herbs and edible flowers

Bypass Pruning Shears for Everyday Gardening

Bypass Pruning Shears for Everyday Gardening

I like these because they are reliable clippers backed by a lifetime warranty making them a smart go to tool for New York City gardeners with limited space

Organic Prilled Garden Gypsum Calcium Sulfate

This is a great fix for fruiting vegetables struggling with root rot or poor drainage especially in containers and heavy soils

Down To Earth Organic Vegetable Garden Fertilizer 4-4-4

This is my favorite foundational fertilizer for containers because it’s gentle and perfect for feeding a wide mix of vegetables

Down To Earth Organic Tomato & Vegetable Fertilizer 4-6-2

This is one of my go-to all purpose fertilizers for container veggies because it feeds slowly keeping plants balanced

Down To Earth Organic Azomite Trace Mineral Powder

Down To Earth Organic Azomite Trace Mineral Powder

Plants need trace minerals just like we do, I add azomite every spring to keep soil balanced and crops more flavorful especially in containers

Wakefield Premium Biochar Blend Organic Potting Soil

Wakefield Premium Biochar Blend Organic Potting Soil

I like this for containers and raised beds when I want better nutrient holding power and steadier watering especially for heavy feeding vegetables

Organic Perlite Soil Amendment

Organic Perlite Soil Amendment

I use this in almost every soil mix to prevent compaction and keep roots healthy especially in containers

Premium Organic Compost

Premium Organic Compost

Great for topping off containers and garden beds when soil needs a gentle nutrient boost without a strong odor

Organic Mushroom Compost Soil Conditioner

Organic Mushroom Compost Soil Conditioner

Great for refreshing tired soil and boosting beds and large containers especially outdoors

Organic Cow Manure Garden Fertilizer

Organic Cow Manure Garden Fertilizer

I only use this outdoors to build soil fertility and improve texture in garden beds and large containers

Organic Vermiculite Soil Amendment

I use vermiculite for seed starting and indoor mixes because it keeps soil evenly moist without compacting which is key in containers and trays

Organic Worm Castings Soil Amendment

I use this as a top dressing or adding to my soil mix because it improves plant health and works especially well in containers

Compressed Organic Potting Soil Made from Coconut Coir and Worm Castings

This is great for small spaces and apartments because it stores easily, expands fast and holds moisture really well without getting soggy

Professional Peat Based Potting Mix with Mycorrhizae

Professional Peat Based Potting Mix with Mycorrhizae

This is my go to base soil mix for containers and seed starting, the mycorrhizae really help roots establish faster especially in pots and grow bags

Organic All Purpose Plant Food 5-3-3

Organic All Purpose Plant Food 5-3-3

I use this for vegetables in containers and raised beds it’s reliable, gentle and great for long term feeding

Organic Compost for Containers Raised Beds and Gardens

Organic Compost for Containers, Raised Beds and Gardens

I love adding this to outdoor container mixes to boost soil life and improve water holding especially for balcony and rooftop gardens

Liquid Fertilizer Trio for Vegetables Flowers and Fruiting Plants

Liquid Fertilizer Trio for Vegetables Flowers and Fruiting Plants

Great fertilizer set for containers because it lets you feed plants based on growth stage which is key when growing in pots

Premium Potting Soil with Mycorrhizae for Container Plants

Premium Potting Soil with Mycorrhizae for Container Plants

I love this for containers because the mycorrhizae help roots establish fast especially in pots on balconies and terraces

The Old Farmer’s Almanac Container Gardener’s Handbook

Great reference book for beginners who want simple reliable container growing advice for balconies, patios and indoors

The Vegetable Gardener’s Container Bible

One of the best beginner friendly books for learning how to grow real food in containers even on patios, balconies and terraces

The Bountiful Container

The Bountiful Container

A classic container gardening book that proves you can grow almost anything in pots, perfect for balconies, terraces and small urban spaces

Field Guide to Urban Gardening Book

One of the best mindset-shifting books for city gardeners, it shows you how to grow food anywhere, no yard required

How to Garden Indoors & Grow Your Own Food Year-Round Book

Perfect for apartment dwellers who want to grow herbs, greens and even fruit indoors all year without outdoor space

Grow Bag Gardening Book

This is a sustainable resource for urban gardeners using balconies, rooftops or small outdoor spaces who want high yields without heavy containers

Stainless Steel Garden Hose Splitter (2-Way)

Stainless Steel Garden Hose Splitter (2-Way)

Perfect for NYC terraces or backyards where you’re splitting water between irrigation systems

2-Gallon Watering Can with Removable Long Spout

2-Gallon Watering Can with Removable Long Spout

This is perfect for balconies, rooftops, or apartments without outdoor water hookups

24-Inch Watering Wand with Gentle Shower Head

24-Inch Watering Wand with Gentle Shower Head

My favorite watering wand - perfect for hanging baskets, tall containers, and hard-to-reach spots, and the ultra-gentle shower is great for seedlings

2 Gallon Outdoor Watering Can with Removable Long Spout

2 Gallon Outdoor Watering Can with Removable Long Spout

Perfect for balcony and patio gardeners who don’t have an outdoor hose hookup

3/4-Inch Garden Hose Splitter (3-Way Outdoor Faucet Adapter)

3/4-Inch Garden Hose Splitter (3-Way Outdoor Faucet Adapter)

I use one of these on my outdoor water hookup so I can run multiple irrigation systems at the same time

Adjustable Drip Irrigation System Kit for Garden & Raised Beds

I use this to water my outdoor garden, it keeps plants consistently watered and saves a ton of time, especially in the summer

Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth

Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth

I like this for keeping ants and other crawling pests under control naturally

Spider & Insect Catcher (Catch and Release Tool)

Spider & Insect Catcher (Catch and Release Tool)

I like this because it lets me move bugs outside without killing them or touching them

Live Beneficial Nematodes Hb + Sc + Sf

Live Beneficial Nematodes Hb + Sc + Sf

These beneficial nematodes help control fungus gnats, thrips (soil stage), grubs, root weevils, and cutworms in NYC gardens

Live Ladybugs for Natural Pest Control

I like these for outdoor aphid outbreaks, but I wouldn’t release them indoors

Peppermint Plant Protection Spray

Peppermint Plant Protection Spray

I like this because peppermint helps control pests and smells way better than chemicals

8 oz Refillable Spray Bottles

8 oz Refillable Spray Bottles

I like these because they’re perfect for mixing neem, soap, and plant sprays at home

Pure Neem Oil Concentrate

Pure Neem Oil Concentrate

I like this because I can dilute it myself and use it safely on indoor plants only and avoiding the leaves I would eat

Peppermint Pure Castile Liquid Soap

Peppermint Pure Castile Liquid Soap

I like this because it gently washes bugs off plants and pests hate the peppermint scent

Vertical Full Spectrum Standing Grow Light with Timer (Adjustable 4–5.6 ft)

Vertical Full Spectrum Standing Grow Light with Timer (Adjustable 4–5.6 ft)

I love this because it’s powerful enough for any indoor plant, even my orchids thrive near it

2FT Full Spectrum LED Grow Light Bars

2FT Full Spectrum LED Grow Light Bars

I like these because they’re strong enough for most indoor crops, even fruiting crops like small tomatoes or peppers

Thermal Transfer Waterproof Labels for Label Makers

Thermal Transfer Waterproof Labels for Label Makers

I love these because they stay readable in blazing summer sun and rain

Waterproof Plastic Plant Labels T Style

Waterproof Plastic Plant Labels T Style

I love these because they last forever and come in colors that are easy to organize

Professional Bypass Pruning Shears Swiss Made

Professional Bypass Pruning Shears Swiss Made

I love these because they feel perfect in hand and make the cleanest cuts

Aluminum Garden Hand Tool Set 3 Pack

Aluminum Garden Hand Tool Set 3 Pack

I like this because it is a simple solid starter set for growing food outdoors

Self Watering Resin Planter 3 Gallon

Self Watering Resin Planter 3 Gallon

I have used these for years and they hold up even in the summer heat

Compact Vertical Indoor Hydroponic Growing System

Compact Vertical Indoor Hydroponic Growing System

I love this because it grows a lot of food indoors without taking up much space

Large Indoor Hydroponic Growing System with Trellis

Large Indoor Hydroponic Growing System with Trellis

You could grow large veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers indoors

Smart Indoor Hydroponic Growing System 12 Pod

Smart Indoor Hydroponic Growing System 12 Pod

I love this because the app control makes hydroponics simple and very hands off

Large Vertical Hydroponic Growing System 5 Tier

Large Vertical Hydroponic Growing System 5 Tier

I love this for experienced growers ready to scale up to serious indoor hydroponics

Vertical Indoor Hydroponic Growing System 2 Tier

Vertical Indoor Hydroponic Growing System 2 Tier

I love this because it lets you go all in on hydroponics indoors with real yields

Waterproof Garden Work Gloves 3 Pack

Waterproof Garden Work Gloves 3 Pack

I like these because they keep my hands dry when gardening in wet muddy conditions

Lightweight Kink Free Garden Hose 100 FT

Lightweight Kink Free Garden Hose 100 FT

I like this because it stays flexible and is easier to maneuver while watering

2 Gallon Watering Can with Removable Long Spout

2 Gallon Watering Can with Removable Long Spout

Perfect for container gardens, holds enough water to care for multiple plants at once

Galvanized Metal Raised Garden Bed 8x2x1.5 ft

Galvanized Metal Raised Garden Bed 8x2x1.5 ft

Ideal for a backyard garden if you plan to stay put for a while and get big harvests year after year

Seed Starter Trays with Grow Lights 3 Pack

A great starter kit if you want to grow from seed indoors perfect for tomatoes, peppers and herbs

Narrow Wicker Harvest Basket with Handles

Rolling Grill Baskets with Removable Wooden Handle

Perfect for grilling fresh vegetables straight from the garden

Handwoven Seagrass Harvest Baskets with Handles

Cute harvesting baskets for herbs, greens and small veggies

Curved Micro Tip Garden Snips 6 Inch

Curved Micro Tip Garden Snips 6 Inch

deal for indoor gardeners growing herbs, perfect for harvesting basil, cilantro and microgreens

Professional Pruning Shears with Ultra Sharp Blade

Professional Pruning Shears with Ultra Sharp Blade

Perfect shears for pruning herbs, peppers and tomatoes without crushing stems

Lightweight Gardening Gloves with Grip and Touchscreen Tips

Gardening Gloves with Grip and Touchscreen Tips

Perfect for outdoor container gardening and let you use your phone without taking them off

Complete Gardening Tool Starter Set with Tote

Complete Gardening Tool Starter Set with Tote

A great starter kit for New Yorkers growing their own food and has everything you need to begin gardening

Elevated Wooden Raised Garden Bed with Storage Shelf

Great for terrace or backyard gardening, the raised height makes planting most anything easier

Tall Rectangular Metal Planter with Insert Shelf

Tall Rectangular Metal Planter with Insert Shelf

Great for terraces, the elevated look feels architectural and works well for nearly all plants

Raised Self Watering Garden Bed with Gauge 12.7 Gallons

Raised Self Watering Garden Bed with Gauge 12.7 Gallons

One of my favorite planters I have grown almost everything in these perfect for intercropping

14 Inch Modern Concrete Style Planter with Drainage

14 Inch Modern Concrete Style Planter with Drainage

A classy option for patios and terraces I'd have one main tomato or pepper with herbs or lettuces

Tall Wicker Style Self Watering Planters 24 Inch 2 Pack

Tall Wicker Style Self Watering Planters 24 Inch 2 Pack

Great for balconies or patios and I would grow one tomato or pepper plant along with basil or lettuce

14 Inch Round Concrete Style Planter with Drainage

14 Inch Round Concrete Style Planter with Drainage

A more elegant option where I would grow one tomato as the centerpiece with lettuces or herbs planted around it

12 Inch Round Planter with Saucer 3 Gallon

A great size for growing one pepper plant outdoors with oregano, thyme, or lettuce planted alongside

14 Inch Self Watering Planter with Reservoir

14 Inch Self Watering Planter with Reservoir

For outdoor gardens have one tomato or pepper as your star crop and tuck lettuce or herbs around

14 Inch Whiskey Barrel Style Planters 4 Pack

14 Inch Whiskey Barrel Style Planters 4 Pack

A cuter upgrade from basic black pots great for beginners with a backyard, terrace or patio

5 Gallon Fabric Grow Bags 10 Pack nyc garden

5 Gallon Fabric Grow Bags 10 Pack

If you are growing tomatoes, squash or cucumbers outdoors these 10 bags can be your entire setup

14” Lightweight Plastic Pot

I like this sturdy light weight pot for outdoor larger crops like tomatoes and peppers

6 8 10 Inch Plant Saucer - 12 Pack Round Plant Tray Plastic Plant Drip Trays for Indoor Outdoor Garden Plants, Collects Flower Pot Drainage and Excess Water

Heavy-Duty Plant Saucers (6”–10”) – 12 Pack

I use these to catch rain water that plants can soak up when needed

Elephant Watering Can

Long trunk which helps in watering plants.

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