*for almost all peppers except Rocoto
1. Planting Peppers
A. When to Plant
- Peppers require warm temperatures to thrive.
- Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last frost date.
- Transplant outdoors when nighttime temperatures remain above 55°F (13°C).
B. Where to Plant
- Full sun: Peppers need at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Well-draining soil: Use loamy or sandy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8.
- Raised beds or containers: Ideal for better drainage and temperature control.
C. Spacing
- Space plants 18–24 inches apart in rows about 24–36 inches apart.
- For container gardening, use at least a 3–5 gallon pot per plant.
2. How to Care for Pepper Plants
A. Watering
- Peppers prefer consistent moisture but do not tolerate soggy soil.
- Water 1–2 inches per week, ensuring deep watering to promote strong roots.
- Use mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
B. Fertilizing
- Use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) when planting.
- Once flowering starts, switch to a low-nitrogen fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-10) to encourage fruiting.
- Apply fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during the growing season.
C. Pruning & Staking
- Prune early growth: Remove small early flowers to encourage stronger plants.
- Stake taller varieties: Supports prevent breakage from heavy fruits or wind.
D. Temperature & Humidity
- Ideal temperatures: 70–85°F (21–29°C) daytime, 55–70°F (13–21°C) nighttime.
- Peppers struggle in temperatures below 50°F (10°C) or above 90°F (32°C).
- Protect from extreme heat with shade cloths during heat waves.
3. Common Problems & Solutions
A. Pests
- Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies → Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Cutworms and caterpillars → Use row covers or hand-pick pests.
B. Diseases
- Blossom End Rot (calcium deficiency) → Maintain consistent watering and add calcium supplements if needed.
- Powdery Mildew (fungal disease) → Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
C. Pollination Issues
- Poor fruit set? Hand-pollinate flowers using a soft brush or shake the plant to distribute pollen.
4. Harvesting & Storage
A. When to Harvest
- Peppers are ready to harvest 60–90 days after transplanting, depending on variety.
- Most peppers can be picked green but develop sweeter or spicier flavors when fully ripe.
B. How to Harvest
- Use scissors or pruning shears to cut peppers off the plant. Avoid pulling to prevent stem damage.
C. Storing Peppers
- Store fresh peppers in the refrigerator for 1–2 weeks.
- Dry, pickle, or freeze peppers for long-term storage.
6. Tips for a Bigger Harvest
Rotate crops yearly to prevent soil diseases.
Companion plant with basil, onions, or marigolds to deter pests.
Remove lower leaves to improve airflow and reduce disease risk.
Pick peppers regularly to encourage more fruit production.
