How to Grow Bell Peppers: A Complete Guide

Bell peppers (Capsicum annuum) are versatile vegetables that can add color and nutrition to your garden. Whether you're a beginner or experienced gardener, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to grow healthy, productive bell pepper plants.

Getting Started

Timing

• Start seeds indoors: 8-10 weeks before your last spring frost date
• Days to germination: 7-14 days at optimal temperature
• Days to maturity: 60-90 days from transplanting, depending on variety

Temperature Requirements

• Germination temperature: 70-85°F (21-29°C) is optimal
• Growing temperature: Thrives in daytime temperatures between 70-80°F (21-27°C)
• Minimum temperature: Protect plants when temperatures drop below 55°F (13°C)
• Maximum temperature: Flower drop may occur above 90°F (32°C)

Light Requirements

• Seedlings: 14-16 hours of bright light daily
• Mature plants: Full sun (6-8 hours of direct sunlight minimum)
• Light intensity: Bell peppers are light-hungry plants that benefit from maximum sun exposure

Planting

Spacing

• In-row spacing: 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) between plants
• Row spacing: 24-36 inches (60-90 cm) between rows
• Container planting: One plant per 5-gallon container minimum

Soil Requirements

• Soil type: Well-draining, loamy soil rich in organic matter
• pH level: 6.0-6.8 (slightly acidic)
• Amendments: Mix in compost or well-rotted manure before planting

Planting Depth

• Seeds: ¼ inch (6 mm) deep
• Transplants: Plant at the same depth as they were in their containers

Care and Maintenance

Watering

• Consistency: Keep soil evenly moist but never soggy
• Frequency: 1-2 inches of water per week, adjusted for rainfall
• Method: Water at soil level to avoid wetting foliage
• Critical periods: Consistent moisture is essential during flowering and fruiting

Fertilizing

• Pre-planting: Incorporate balanced organic fertilizer into soil
• Early growth: Low-nitrogen, phosphorus-rich fertilizer after transplanting
• Fruiting stage: Apply balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks
• Signs of deficiency: Yellowing leaves may indicate nitrogen deficiency

Support

• Staking: Consider supporting plants with stakes or cages
• Pruning: Optional - removing lower leaves can improve air circulation

Common Challenges

Pests

• Aphids: Spray with strong water stream or insecticidal soap

• Spider mites: Increase humidity and use neem oil

• Pepper weevils: Remove affected fruits and practice crop rotation

Diseases

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  Bacterial leaf spot: Avoid overhead watering and remove infected leaves
• Blossom end rot: Caused by calcium deficiency or irregular watering.

• Powdery mildew: Improve air circulation and avoid wetting foliage

Harvesting

• Timing: Harvest when peppers reach full size and desired color
• Green peppers: Can be harvested earlier
• Colored peppers: Require longer on plant to develop red, yellow, orange, or purple colors
• Method: Use sharp scissors or pruners to cut peppers from the plant
• Storage: Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks; can also be frozen or dried

Tips for Success

1. Hardening off: Gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days
2. Companion planting: Plant alongside onions, carrots, or basil
3. Mulching: Apply 2-3 inches of organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
4. Succession planting: Start new seedlings every 2-3 weeks for extended harvest
5. Temperature management: Use row covers or shade cloth during extreme temperatures

By following these guidelines, you'll be well on your way to growing delicious, nutritious bell peppers in your garden. Remember that peppers are warm-season crops that reward patience and consistent care with abundant harvests!