Growing Piper Nigrum Zones

Native Habitat

• The peppercorn plant grows wild in Southern India and Sri Lanka in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zone 12. The temperature ranges from 55 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit all year round in these tropical climates. This vine reaches 30 feet tall when grown in its native habitat and the berries can be harvested year round.

Growing Conditions

• When grown outside USDA zone 12, this vine survives only in a greenhouse or house. The air temperature should not fall below 50 degrees Fahrenheit or the vine will die back. To get the best harvest, provide the plant with part sun exposure. Filtered sun or bright indirect light protects the leaves from sunburn.

Soil

• To produce the best growth of the peppercorn plant, the soil should mimic its natural soil, which is fertile and moist with good drainage. Use a mixture of 2 parts peat moss, 1 part potting soil and 1 part coarse sand to grow this vine. Add 2 cups of 14-14-14 slow-release fertilizer to give the plant a strong start.

Growing Tips

• Peppercorn vines are heavy feeders and need fertilizing each month. Use 3 tablespoons of 14-14-14 scratched into the top of the soil in the container. Keep the soil moist, but not overly wet. These vines suffer root rot when kept wet. Train the vine to climb up a trellis to produce fruit. Check the leaves each week for aphids and spray the vine with a strong stream of water to get rid of the pests.