Potting Up Super Hot Pepper Seedlings: Your Indoor Garden Upgrade

Once your super hot pepper seedlings have 2–3 sets of true leaves, it’s time to move them from their starter trays into larger pots. This step gives the roots space to spread and sets the stage for strong, healthy plants.

You can use 4–6 inch pots or even solo cups—just make sure to poke a few drainage holes in the bottom. For soil, I like FoxFarm Happy Frog as a starting mix. Fill each container, then use a Sharpie (or your finger) to make a small hole about a quarter-inch deep.

When it’s time to transplant, be gentle. A small spoon works great to scoop seedlings out of the tray without damaging their roots. Place the seedling into the hole, let the roots settle in, and gently pat the soil around it.

Now comes the fun part—creating an outdoor environment indoors. You don’t need heating mats anymore, but you do need light and warmth. I love using Mars grow lights, though there are plenty of budget-friendly options for smaller setups. Position your lights close enough to mimic sunlight, and consider adding reflective material (like Mylar or even aluminum foil) around your grow space to maximize light efficiency. Keep the area warm and consistent, and your seedlings will thrive.

This stage is all about giving them room, light, and stability. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures—seedlings grow fast, and it’s amazing to look back on how far they’ve come.

Next, we’ll talk about preparing your plants for the big move outdoors—but for now, enjoy this exciting step as your seedlings become sturdy young plants ready for the next challenge.