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Hi,
I have a cayenne chili plant that I transplanted into the garden about three weeks ago. It was fine when it was inside for a couple of days, but as soon as I planted it outside, it started to wilt. At the beginning, it got better during the morning / evening. I’ve been watering it properly, but about a 1.5 week ago, it started looking like it does in the picture—always wilted. It's also behind a smaller bush, so it only gets moderate sunlight.
I’m worried I overwatered it because the soil is still wet. The leaves don’t droop or feel dry. I’m hoping it’s just transplant shock, but my other chili is fine, and I did the same thing. I’m also concerned it might have bacterial wilt, but I’m not sure how to tell for sure.
Any ideas what could be the issue?
Thanks in advance
Hi @perth9223,
It looks like your cayenne chilli plant is having a tough time adjusting to its new spot, and watering may be the main issue.
The soil appears particularly sandy, which could affect the plant’s ability to take up water properly. Sandy soil drains quickly, which might make it difficult for the plant to retain the moisture it needs, especially if it wasn’t amended with compost or potting mix when planted. Adding organic material to the soil helps improve moisture retention and provides essential nutrients, so it’s worth checking if that was done during planting.
As for the wilting, the fact that the soil is still wet suggests that the plant might actually be overwatered rather than underwatered. Overwatering can lead to root suffocation, causing the plant to wilt even though the soil appears moist. It’s best to water the plant only when the soil feels slightly dry, about an inch below the surface, as consistently moist soil can stress the plant. Sometimes, it can be tricky to tell whether the plant is over or underwatered, but if the leaves aren’t dry or crispy, overwatering is more likely in this case.
You also mentioned the possibility of bacterial wilt, but this seems unlikely. Bacterial wilt usually causes more severe symptoms like yellowing and wilting from the base upwards, which doesn’t seem to match your plant’s condition. Additionally, since the plant is still showing signs of life, bacterial wilt is probably not the cause.
Another factor to consider is the sunlight exposure. If the chilli plant is behind a smaller bush and only gets moderate sunlight, it might not be getting enough direct light. Chillies generally require full sun—at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day—to thrive. If it’s too shaded, this could be contributing to the wilting. If possible, try moving the plant to a sunnier location or trimming back any surrounding plants to allow more light to reach it.
Finally, transplant shock is always a possibility, but since your other chilli plant is doing well, it’s more likely that environmental factors, like watering and sunlight, are the main contributors. To help the plant recover, ensure the soil drains well but retains enough moisture, water only when the soil is dry to the touch about an inch down, and ensure it gets enough direct sunlight. You might like to apply some Seasol to help it recover. Hopefully, with these adjustments, your plant will bounce back soon.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
Hi @perth9223,
I don't see any need to check the roots at this point. The only reason I might consider lifting the plant would be if it was planted in very sandy soil or in a spot that doesn't get much sunlight. Right now, I would focus on getting the watering right. Water when the soil is drying out, and avoid watering if it's still damp or wet.
Mitchell
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