Red Chilli plant

Project: Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh Chilli Challenge

RIE staff members were invited to take part in the Chilli Challenge 2026 – supported to grow, cook and try tasty new dishes with a touch of spice.

Our challenge started in February 2026! Staff members were invited to join solo or as a team and share the fun, swap tips, and spice up their summer dishes.

This was an opportunity to experience the joys of ‘grow your own’ on a windowsill at home with mutual support from colleagues and need to know growing support from the Nature Ranger.

This opportunity was open to all staff members at the Royal Infirmary.

How it’s going

February
March/April
May
June

Over 100 chilli packs were distributed to staff at the Bioquarter. Staff had chosen their spice level of chilli and got their seeds planted!

The seeds are sprouting! With engagement on our designated Teams channel and drop in sessions with Nature Ranger Lou, the chillies are off to a great start and will hopefully be soon for a larger pot!

Chillies have been repotted! All growers are at different stages with a few lost due to their seeds not sprouting or dying off, we have some really strong contenders as well as a few smaller plants.

A few chilli plants have started flowering and are ready for pollination! Some have been thriving in the Scottish sun whilst others have been struggling with the heat.

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Wildflowers in field

Get in touch

Get in touch if you would like to find out more or discuss how we can work together to benefit NHS Lothian patients and staff.

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Ian Mackenzie, Green Health Programme Manager

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