Transplanting Ornamental Pepper Plant

Question

I bought an ornamental pepper plant that is about 5″ tall. I need to put it in a larger pot. Should I add sand to the potting mix for better drainage? Also, should I deadhead when peppers fall off?

Answer 1

Actually, I prefer perlite to sand for increasing drainage. Sand particles can work themselves together, and clog up the air spaces in the soil. But sand is better than nothing, if you can’t get perlite. Also don’t use potting mixes with “moisture retentive or managing” additives. Mix the perlite and soil 1:1, or 1:2.
When the peppers fall off, they’re pretty well deadheaded then, right? But you can cut them off when they start to shrivel and discolor.