Troubleshooting
Cayenne Pepper problems — and how to fix them
Cayenne Pepper (Capsicum annuum 'Cayenne') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Flower drop
Blossoms fall when temperatures swing too cold or hot, watering is erratic, or feed is too rich in nitrogen. Keep conditions steady and feed with high-potash fertiliser.
Aphids and spider mites
Frequent on indoor and greenhouse plants. Inspect new growth and leaf undersides, and treat early with insecticidal soap or a strong water spray.
Blossom-end rot
Sunken patch on the pod tip from irregular watering disrupting calcium uptake. Keep compost evenly moist rather than alternating dry and saturated.
Leggy seedlings
Poor light makes plants stretch and topple. Provide bright light or a grow light from germination and pot on promptly.
Prevent cayenne pepper problems before they start
Most cayenne pepper issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for cayenne pepper in general rather than its problems? Read the full cayenne pepper care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Cayenne Pepper problems — FAQ
Why is my cayenne pepper flower drop?
Blossoms fall when temperatures swing too cold or hot, watering is erratic, or feed is too rich in nitrogen. Keep conditions steady and feed with high-potash fertiliser.
Why is my cayenne pepper aphids and spider mites?
Frequent on indoor and greenhouse plants. Inspect new growth and leaf undersides, and treat early with insecticidal soap or a strong water spray.
Why is my cayenne pepper blossom-end rot?
Sunken patch on the pod tip from irregular watering disrupting calcium uptake. Keep compost evenly moist rather than alternating dry and saturated.
Why is my cayenne pepper leggy seedlings?
Poor light makes plants stretch and topple. Provide bright light or a grow light from germination and pot on promptly.