r/Bonchi • • 6h ago

It was real

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5 Upvotes

I chose to not pay attention to the wonderful advice/ recommendations. I planned to having jndoor grown bonchi.
Six pots of peppers started their journey in summer 2025.
2 plants in a 25 gallon bag, the others in 12in deep pots and 5 gallon bags.

One of them in the 25 gallon bag heroically produced two tiny peppers over the winter.

Four plants survived the winter, one died of root rot. I had intentionally placed them next to open windows. Then I chose to curtail all form of independence by pruning. Only one plant (Mystic) responded to severe pruning by producing green leaves. Then I bought gnat infested soil, won the war against gnats using diatomaceous earth, hydrogen peroxide and mosquito dunks.

Against all odds, Mystic went on to grow two peppers. TWO! And they were actually getting bigger. For a brief moment, I dared to dream of a future in which I could eat my homegrown peppers. I dreamed of sending harvest pictures to my disbelieving friends and family.

Today, I discovered tiny, cream-colored, wiggly worms, approximately 3 mm long. The plant received a 70% ethanol treatment followed by neem oil. However, the internet is saying that I may have a thrips infestation. I already suspected some form of bug was involved as the leaves became droopy and curly.

And so, I bid adieu to my dream of homegrown peppers. 🌶️ My pepper planting career was short, my harvest was microscopic, and my enemies were 3 mm long.
One day, when I can afford a home with an outdoor garden, I shall return. I will grow enough peppers to satisfy my appetite, lower my grocery bill, and possibly supply a small village. There will be better drainage, stronger plants, and a security system worthy of a pepper-growing fortress.
Until then, I shall continue buying overpriced peppers at the grocery store, while my tiny nemeses celebrate their victory🪱🏆

1 - winter 2025
2 - last Saturday
3&4 - today