Chilis Not Germinating

[237SJ]

I planted some Apache chillies at the end of Feb (planting season is Feb-Apr) and they haven`t germinated. They were beside the French windows where I thought they would get some warm sun but maybe they became too cold overnight. Last year I was late in planting them - I think I did it in April and they germinated with no problem. Is it too late for them now? Would the seeds have rotted away or is there still a chance they could germinate if the conditions are right?

[theprof]

I've grown them a few times and invariably, they need to be sown in a heated propagator to guarantee germination. I think they might well have got too cold overnight close to French windows.

It's not too late to give them another try and you may well be able to rescue some of the seeds sown earlier. Take a close look at the seeds to check that they are viable and show no signs of mould or rotting.

You can still get a crop this year but they'll be later than normal. Don't waste any time though and sow the seeds asap. Most garden centres will sell you a small heated propagator for a few pounds or even an electrically heated pad to sit the pots or seed tray on. A heated propagator is a worthwhile investment in a situation like this and is very versatile. You don't even need a thermostatically controlled one if you're only planting chillies.

[alavahalf]

Here's an alternative method and you wont have to spend a penny ... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Sx_GBbZi68

[theprof]

Yes that's fine alavahalf as long as the OP is prepared to risk breaking the radicle during transplantation. It's not quite as easy as that video makes out.

As I said, time is of the essence and given that it's now April, there's really no time to spare if the chillies are to bear fruit this year. That video is more suitable for consideration in February/March when the grower has more time to spare in messing about with alternative methods. It's certainly should not be given consideration during the first week of April.

[237SJ]

I have never had a problem growing Apaches in the past but I was just wondering if the seeds that have been planted since late Feb would have degenerated to the point that they are useless. I have sprayed the soil to prevent dehydration but there is no sign of life.