Chilli plant problem

Discussion in 'Edible Gardening' started by Esoxlucius, Aug 20, 2024.

  1. Esoxlucius

    Esoxlucius Gardener

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    I have grown chillis without too much difficulty in the past. However, my latest chilli plant, a Carolina reaper, isn't playing ball at all for some strange reason.

    It's at the flowering stage at the minute, and there are lots of them, good crop I thought. But instead of the flowers turning to chillis they are just dropping off the plant when they have finished blooming, flower stalk as well.

    The whole flowers and stalks are just dropping before the chillis even have a chance to start developing. I've never had this happen before. Any ideas anyone?
     
  2. DiggersJo

    DiggersJo Head Gardener

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    Is it getting pollinated?
     
  3. Esoxlucius

    Esoxlucius Gardener

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    What, as in outside with insects?? It's on an inside windowsill, just like all the others I've had. I've had chillis off all my past plants, also grown inside.

    How strange.
     
  4. JWK

    JWK Gardener Staff Member

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    It does sound like a pollination problem. I give my greenhouse chillies a hand, shaking the flowers and transferring pollen between flowers with my fingers. Some people use a small paint brush.
     
  5. Esoxlucius

    Esoxlucius Gardener

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    Maybe in the past I've had insects come in from open windows and such to give my chillis a helping hand.

    It may be too late for this plant now, I'll know next time. At least I've got a good excuse now to get out of the Carolina reaper eating contest with my son!! Lol.
     
  6. BobTG

    BobTG Plantaholic

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    Chillies are self-pollinating, but sometimes need a little help to get the pollen to transfer inside the flower. I'd do as @JWK suggests. :smile:
     
  7. waterbut

    waterbut Gardener

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    Use a small water colour paint brush and DIY it.
     
    • Agree Agree x 1
    • DiggersJo

      DiggersJo Head Gardener

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      This site might be of use. I've not looked at it myself as it has too many cookies....
       
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