I used silica soln last season in hopes of giving plants stronger cell walls. These plants couldn't withstand a hornworm attack. It may provide protection against lesser pests.
Plants look good Matt. I usually wait about 4 days after full color for seeds. The yellow bhuts usually have a lot of seeds in them, so that one pod should give you plenty.
I felt obligated to do some germ testing since I distributed seeds earlier in the year. I chose my runtiest seeds to see if they were any good. These seeds were placed into a towel on 1/18. I used no bottom heat. They were placed into a drawer in a room at 65-70 F. I checked on them every...
I've disturbed pepper roots with complete potting mix replacement many times. It takes them a few days to adjust, but I've never had one die on me. I don't cut the main taproot. Lateral roots are replaceable.
Seeds sent out on Tues. Hopefully, they get there by Sat.
I sent extras in case of postal casualties.
Some info about my seeds: all open-pollinated from my favorite plant--only non-Douglah pepper in area was red brainy 7 pod.
I'll be #7.
Let's make this more fun. If you're up for it Zanman, I'll send you 150 Douglah seeds to be included in everyone's envelopes. Send your addy in my PM and I'll mail them out ASAP.
Here's an article on treating hydro pathogens
www.maximumyield.com/article_sh_db.php?articleID=138&submit=Go
You can try adding reflective insulation. This will bring the temps down a few degrees. Nothing dramatic but cheap. I think many Aussies grow in coco which is the best alternative.
I believe that's the NMSU protocol for their retail seeds. You can read more about it on their website. Properly dried seeds stored in fridge should work well enough.
EDIT: Offer went to Pat
I have some extra pods available for US delivery. I will ship 15 pods in a small flat rate box for $20 paypal only. All pods are from an isolated plant. Post a reply if you want to order. I will contact the first person to reply.
Sample pods.
I'll just comment on the basil. I planted Thai basil plants throughout my pepper patch. There were no aphid breakouts in that area. But they were no help against hornworms. However, I plant basil for the bees. I have more bees visiting my garden with flowering basils.
Good luck with the...