Bell peppers, which are known botanically as Capsicum Annuum, are a type of vegetable that can easily be grown at home. Continue reading to learn the basics of growing bell peppers as well as common mistakes to avoid along the way.
Best Time to Plant Bell Peppers
This will depend largely on your local climate, but as a rule of thumb, begin to plant the bell pepper seeds 12 to 16 weeks before the first expected frost. This is the best time to ensure that the seedlings survive the weather.
To check when bell peppers are most likely to thrive in your area, see the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. If you live outside the US, do a quick search for ‘plant hardiness zone + [city]’.
How to Plant Bell Peppers the Right Way
There are a number of things to consider that will help you avoid some of the common mistakes of growing bell peppers in your home garden.
Often overlooked, your soil can have a huge impact on how well your bell peppers grow. Generally, your soil should be rich soil that’s more sandy or loamy. Soil PH levels should be around 6.5 to7.
3′ apart in rows, keeping rows approximately 2′ apart. 18″ apart in rows. The seeds should be sowed at a depth of about .25″. For each plant, be sure to sow at least a few seeds to ensure that at least one of them will germinate.
Begin thinning your bell pepper seedlings thin or transplant to 1 plant every 18″ when plants are 3″ tall.
How Much Sunlight is Needed to Grow Bell Peppers
The amount of sunlight is another key to a successful harvest. Too much sunlight will dry out your bell peppers. Not enough sunlight will stunt your its growth or even kill it.
Ideally, your bell peppers should be getting full sun, which means as much sunlight as you can possibly give it, or at least 6 hours or more.
How Much to Water Bell Peppers
As you’ve figured by now, a lot can have an impact on how well your bell peppers do, and the amount of water is no different.
Ideally, the soil should be damp to touch; not soggy or bone dry. If the leaves on your bell peppers begin to change colors or start to look droopy, you need to adjust how much water you’re giving it.
Unfortunately, if you give it too much or too little water, you can kill it, so it’s best to just keep an eye on it and water as needed.
How Long Does it Take Bell Peppers to Germinate and Grow?
Now the fun part begins and you get to watch your bell peppers grow.
It takes approximately 10-12 days to germinate, and a total of 65-85 days from seed to harvest.
When to Harvest Bell Peppers
The best time to harvest your bell peppers is when the fruit is still green, but full sized.
Bell peppers can grow up to about 4 and 5 inches long average diameter being between 2 and 3 inches.
What Can Bell Peppers Be Used For?
Food Use: These are great in salads! Or freeze for later use.
Flavor Profile: Sweet, mild taste.
Can Bell Peppers Grow in Pots and Containers?
Yes, you will ideally need a 12″+ containerfor each plant. This can help control weeds and keep your plant from growing out of control.
It also gives you the flexibility to move your bell peppers around if you need to adjust sunlight or bring it indoors to avoid harsh weather conditions.
Are Bell Peppers Safe for Bees?
Yes, bell peppers are safe for bees.
According to GreenPeace.org, bees pollinate human food crops that make up about 90% of the world’s nutrition.
Given their importance in our ecosystem and food supply, I feel it is important to note that growing bell peppers is bee-friendly.
