Tips for Growing Peppers
Peppers are very tasty and versatile vegetables that come in a wide variety of colors, sizes, shapes and flavors. Growing Peppers is fairly easy, and in North America, the most popular to plant in the vegetable garden is the “sweet” pepper variety. The sweet pepper grows green and has a nice, mild taste to it. As the plant matures, it actually changes color, usually turning red and taking on a much spicier flavor. No matter which variety of peppers you choose to grow, the same rules tend to apply, and you will be left with a homegrown and colorful bounty. We have put together some tips for growing peppers in your very own backyard vegetable garden.
Begin Indoors
With peppers, it is best to begin growing inside, so plant them about 8 to 10 weeks before the end of the seasonal frost. While peppers are fairly easy to grow, they are not quite as easy to germinate, so remember to be patient and know they can take as long as a month or even longer before germination. This is why most gardeners prefer to start them from seedling.
Prep Your Soil
When you’re ready to plant your peppers, prepare the soil with lots of fertilizer and a mixture of compost. The pepper plant does not like a lot of nitrogen but instead prefers soil with a good balance of both phosphorus and potassium. Too much nitrogen will not harm the pepper plant; however, it will prevent it from growing fruit.
Ensure the Right Temperature & Sunlight
Peppers love hot weather, so be absolutely certain there is no danger of frost during the early morning hours or overnight. Plant in an area that will receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day.
Space Plants Appropriately
Plant pepper seeds about two feet apart from each other.
Water Regularly
Water as soon as you plant your peppers and keep in mind that peppers don’t require a ton of watering – 1 to 2 inches a week will do.
Retain Moisture
Adding mulch is an excellent way to prevent weeds and it will also help in retaining moisture.
Harvest
You will know your peppers are ready to be harvested as soon as the fruit looks colorful and large enough to eat. How big you let it get is up to you, but remember that after a certain amount of time, it will transform itself from green to red, so keep that in mind and enjoy the wonderful flavors that peppers have to offer.
We hope we have answered all of your questions on how to plant peppers. Let us know if you have any questions or feedback in the comment section below.
