When To Sow: February-April Harvest: August-October
Germination: 7-14 days Full sun.
Select a sunny location where other members of the Solanaceae family (tomatoes, potatoes, etc.) have not been planted recently and in soil that is well drained and slightly acidic (pH 5.5-7.0).
Starting Indoors: Sow ¼” deep into well-draining seed starting mix 7-10 weeks before your last frost. Place in a bright, sunny location or supplement with artificial light. For ideal germination, soil temperatures should be between 80-85F. Without added heat, the seeds can take up to two weeks to germinate.
Once your seedlings have 2-4 true leaves, transplant into a larger container and apply a good feed.
Transplant outside or into permanent pots once the soil has warmed – no colder than 50F at any given time. Harden off gradually before transplanting.
Plants should be set 12-24” apart, in rows 24-36” apart, or spaced about 14-16” apart in raised beds. Peppers like to be planted fairly close to one another, so that there is slight contact between them. This variety also does well in large containers.
Direct Seed: Not recommended.
Maintenance
For optimum fruit set, peppers need a steady supply of water and stable temperatures. If nighttime temperatures reach below 60 F or above 75F, fruit set can be greatly reduced. Mulching is a great way to maintain heat and preserve soil moisture.
When feeding, choose organic fertilizers that are high in phosphorus, potassium and calcium. Too much nitrogen can deter fruit growth.
Sweet Peppers does best with 2’ stakes for earlier and heavier harvest.
Companion Planting:
All sweet peppers well with tomatoes, geraniums, and, petunias. Avoid planting with the Brassicae family (kale, cabbage, and brussel sprouts).