Jalepeno Pepper Growing Hydroponically
Answered by: Inge Poot
Question from: Steven S.
Posted on: April 16, 2007

I was wondering what the pH should be for my hydroponically grown jalapenos and tomatoes.

Jalapeno peppers grow from pH 5.0 to 6.8 and do best at pH 5.8. Tomatoes are not fussy about pH and anything around neutral (7) will do fine.

I am also having a problem with a small furry white parasite that is eating at a pretty steady rate.

If the parasite is actually eating the leaves, then I suspect it is a caterpillar. Spray with neem oil at the rate of 1 teaspoon of oil plus 1/2 teaspoon of dishwash detergent to a liter (quart) of water.

If the insect is actually sucking the juices and the puncture marks are causing deformities of the leaves, then it most likely is a mealybug infestation. Spray with 2-5% hydrogen peroxide solution.

... and last but not least, how do I prune to make the plants bush out for better yield.

When the plants are about 30cm (one foot) high, nip out the growing tip.

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