New here from Southern California

[dannyg_peppers]

Hey everyone! Just found this forum and excited to connect with fellow gardeners.

I'm in zone 9 Southern California, where I've been growing in containers and raised beds for the past few years. My main passion is peppers - I'm currently growing 50+ varieties ranging from sweet bells to superhots like Carolina Reapers and Trinidad Scorpions. But I also grow tomatoes, cucumbers, herbs, and whatever else catches my interest at the nursery!

The SoCal climate has its perks (year-round growing season!) but also challenges - intense summer heat, limited water, and some pests that never seem to take a break. I've learned a lot about companion planting, efficient watering systems, and dealing with our alkaline soil.

I love experimenting with fermented hot sauces using my homegrown peppers, and I'm always looking for tips on maximizing yields in containers and making the most of limited space.

Looking forward to learning from all of you and sharing what I've picked up along the way. Happy to answer any questions about growing in hot, dry climates or pepper varieties!

Cheers,
Danny

 

[oneeye]

Hello and welcome, friend. Thanks for stopping in, just in time for Spring.

 

[Meadowlark]

...I love experimenting with fermented hot sauces using my homegrown peppers, and I'm always looking for tips on maximizing yields in containers and making the most of limited space.

Ever try this one...fermented Salsa Verde?

I grow the tomatillos, jalapenos and other stuff and provide the ingredients to my neighbor who then makes genuine fermented Salsa Verde. It is absolutely to die for. Her own special family recipe.

Sometimes I give her chiles/serranos if she requests but I prefer the Salsa made with jalapenos and tomatillos fresh from my garden.

 

[Sheal]

Welcome to the forum dannyg_peppers.

 

[Oliver Buckle]

welcome to the forum, fifty varieties ! Thought I was doing reasonably with twelve heritage tomatoes. Growing in containers I find a layer of wood in the bottom, then water from the bottom so the wood gets soaked and the water percolates up. Makes it easier to keep the moisture level constant.

 

[Darth Griffin]

Ahoy, and welcome.