Post by @simonakeroydgardener

Did you know that chilli plants and bell pepper plants are tender perennials? Yet most gardeners treat these as annuals whereby they just grow them for one year, getting rid of them at the end of summer. However, to save you sowing seeds again every year you simply have to bring them indoors in autumn to protect them from the frost and the cold or winter. If you protect them from the cold your chilli plants should produce fruit again next year without having to sow new plants . To bring your chilli plants indoors this autumn simply dig them up and plant in a container. Harvest any remaining fruit. Then trim the shoots back to about halfway down. This will create a sturdy structure for the plants to shoot again next year. It will also reduce the chance of overwintering bugs and pests remaining active and on the leaves once indoors. And reduce shock and transpiration for the plants with the change of temperature. And a pruned plant needs less space indoors. Keep them somewhere frost free such as a conservatory, kitchen windowsill or if you live somewhere mild like me (by the sea on the English Riviera in Brixham, Devon) you can just keep them somewhere sheltered such as your porch. Next spring or summer, after the risk of frost has passed you can simply bring your plant back outdoors and either keep it in its container or plant it directly into the soil. You can continue to do this for a number of years. You will find each season produces a slightly lower yield of chilies. Enjoy your crop of chilies and happy gardening. Best wishes Simon.