Not sure when to pick your bell peppers?
Don’t worry, it’s easy to tell!
Here are 4 signs to look for. This guide will help you harvest at the perfect time.
Ready to learn more?
Let’s go!
1. Color Change
One of the easiest ways to tell if your bell peppers are ready is by their color. A ripe bell pepper will be vibrant and glossy, whether it’s red, yellow, orange, or green.
If they’re still a little dull, give them a few more days. Remember, green bell peppers can also be fully ripe, depending on the variety.
Just know that the color should be consistent all over the pepper.
2. Firmness
Give your bell peppers a gentle squeeze. If they feel firm and crisp, they’re ready to harvest.
Soft spots or wrinkly skin mean they’re either overripe or need more time. You want a pepper that feels solid in your hand without any mushiness.
It should bounce back when you press it lightly, indicating that it’s at its peak.
3. Size
Size is another indicator. Check the seed packet or plant label to know what size to expect.
Most bell peppers are ready to pick when they reach about 3 to 4 inches long. However, larger varieties might need more time.
As long as the pepper has grown to its full expected size and meets the other criteria, it’s harvesting time!
4. Stem Flexibility
Look at the stem where the pepper meets the plant. If it’s starting to turn from green to brownish or grayish, that could be a sign it’s ready to come off.
A gentle tug should easily separate the pepper from the plant. If it resists, it might need a bit more time.
A ripe pepper often leaves the plant with just a light twist or pull.