How I Grow Chillies and Tomatoes All Year in Bangalore

The Two Vegetables I Can’t Live Without

Chillies and tomatoes appear in almost every dish I cook, so it felt natural to grow them year-round. Over time, I’ve developed a rhythm that keeps them producing almost continuously.

Choosing the Right Varieties

Chillies like Byadgi and Guntur handle Bangalore’s weather well. Cherry tomatoes and desi varieties resist pests and temperature swings better than hybrids.

A Routine Built on Observation

I start seeds in cocopeat trays and transplant them once they show strong true leaves. Tomatoes benefit from regular pruning – removing the suckers keeps them productive. Chillies, on the other hand, love a light pruning after each harvest cycle to encourage branching.

Managing Pests and Weather Fluctuations

Whiteflies, aphids, and leaf miners show up regularly. Neem oil, sticky traps, and simple hand removal keep them under control. During monsoon, I shift the plants to a slightly sheltered area. During summer, I water early mornings and late evenings to prevent stress.

The Reward of Homegrown Flavour

There’s nothing like a bowl of fresh cherry tomatoes straight from the plant or the aroma of just-picked chillies. Growing them year-round has taught me that success comes not from perfection but from daily attention and gentle care.