Why Grow Peppers?
Peppers come in a dazzling array of colors, shapes, and flavors. Whether you're growing sweet bell peppers or spicy cayenne peppers, these plants are a delightful addition to your garden.
Types of Peppers
Peppers are typically classified by their shape:
- Bell Peppers: Large and sweet.
- Round or Cherry Peppers: Small and versatile.
- Heart-Shaped Anchos: Ideal for stuffing and drying.
- Long Cayennes: Perfect for spice lovers.
Any of these shapes can come in sweet or hot varieties, offering endless possibilities!
Starting Peppers from Seed
Peppers are frost-sensitive and require a long growing season. Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost date. For more tips on seedling care, check out our Seedling Care Guide.
Preparing the Soil
Peppers thrive in soil that is rich in organic matter, moderately fertile, and evenly moist. When planting, add a starter fertilizer and consider using a calcium supplement like Azomite to prevent blossom end rot.
Planting Peppers
Here’s how to plant pepper transplants:
- Wait 2–3 weeks after the last frost to ensure the soil is warm.
- Dig a hole and bury the transplant an inch deeper than it was in its pot.
- Space plants 12–14 inches apart in beds or 18–24 inches apart in rows.
Caring for Peppers
- Temperature: Peppers may drop flowers if nighttime temperatures fall below 60°F or rise above 75°F.
- Watering: Keep soil evenly moist to prevent flower and fruit drop. Use reflective plastic mulch or organic mulch to retain soil moisture.
- Support: Stake or cage your pepper plants to prevent them from toppling under the weight of their fruit.
Dealing with Pests
Aphids are a common pest for peppers and can carry diseases. Here’s how to manage them:
- Spray aphids off with water.
- If necessary, use an insecticide like Safer Insecticidal Soap, which is effective against aphids and safe for beneficial insects when used correctly.
Harvesting Peppers
Peppers can be harvested at any stage of growth:
- Early-stage peppers are green, white, or lilac, while mature peppers turn red, yellow, or orange.
- Pick peppers by snipping them off the plant to avoid damaging the bush.
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of homegrown peppers and grow organic for life!
