Chili Pepper (Hydro)
Capsicum annuum
Malay names: Cili
Productive in Dutch buckets or DWC with strong sun; needs staking and balanced EC.
🌞 Light & Temperature
Light: Full sun to very bright light
Temperature: 22–34°C
🪴 Container & Medium
Container: Dutch buckets with perlite/clay pebbles; 15–25 L per plant; sturdy stakes.
Medium / Solution: Medium: perlite/clay pebbles; Solution: pH 5.8–6.3, EC 2.0–3.0 mS/cm
💧 Watering / Solution Maintenance
Schedule: Drip 3–6x/day (short pulses) or maintain DWC; change 10–14 days
Top-up: Consistent moisture; avoid extremes
pH 5.8–6.3; EC 2.0–3.0 mS/cm
🧪 Nutrients
Type: Fruiting nutrient; add Ca/Mg
Frequency: Check EC 2–3x/week; change 10–14 days
Dosage/EC: EC 2.0–3.0 mS/cm; pH 5.8–6.3
🍓 Harvest
Start: 10–14 weeks from transplant
Seasonality: Year-round with sun and shelter
Duration: Fruiting window 8–12+ weeks
Harvest Indicators: Pods glossy and full; color at variety stage (green/red/orange)
Tips: Cut rather than pull to avoid branch damage.
🌱 Propagation
Seeds; transplant when 10–15 cm tall.
🐛 Pests & Diseases
- Aphids/mites/thrips: Neem 1%; blue/yellow traps; maintain airflow.
- Bacterial spot: Sanitize tools; avoid overhead wetting; remove infected leaves.
🌦️ Seasonal Notes (Malaysia)
Rain cover reduces disease; avoid leaf wetting in evenings.
📝 System Notes
Stake early; single plant per bucket for best yield.
💡 Extra Care Tips
- Harvest frequently to encourage new set
- Supplement calcium if blossom end rot appears
Note
EC and pH are guidelines—adjust to plant response and your water source. In monsoon humidity, increase airflow and reduce overcrowding to limit disease.