Description
Botanical name
Capsicum annuum
Family
Solanaceae
Spacing
18-24 inches apart, with rows 24-36 inches apart
Depth
1/4 to 1/2 inch deep
Sun & Soil Requirements
- Full sun
- Fertile, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8
- At least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day
Indoors
- Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost date
- Transplant seedlings outdoors when they are 6-8 inches tall and the soil has warmed up to at least 60°F (15.6°C)
Outdoors Plant outdoors in the garden after the last expected frost date when the soil has warmed up to at least 60°F (15.6°C)
Germination Time
7-14 days, depending on soil temperature
Companion Planting
- Plant with basil, parsley, and tomatoes
- Avoid planting with fennel or kohlrabi
Watering requirements
- Consistent moisture
- Deep watering but infrequently
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Fertilizer requirements
- Balanced fertilizer at planting time and once a month thereafter
- Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen
Pests
- Susceptible to aphids and flea beetles
- Use row covers to protect against flea beetles
- Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids
Timing
- Plant after last expected frost date
- 70-80 days to maturity
Growing
- Staking or supporting is recommended
- Pinch off the first flowers that appear to promote vegetative growth and a larger harvest
- Pinch off the growing tip of the plant once it reaches 12-18 inches in height to encourage branching and a bushier plant
Harvest Tips
- Harvest when fruits have reached full size and have turned their final color
- Cut the stem with a sharp knife or pruners leaving a small portion of stem attached to the fruit
Season Tolerance
- Heat-loving plants
- Do not tolerate frost
- Protect if temperatures drop below 55°F (12.8°C)
