Want to grow green peppers?
It’s easier than you think!
With the right tactics, you can have a bountiful harvest. Discover 8 simple tips to help your green peppers thrive.
Ready to get started?
Let’s grow some peppers!
Pick the Right Seeds
Choosing the right seeds is your starting point. Go for high-quality, organic seeds, if possible.
Look for varieties that do well in your climate. Whether you like bell peppers or something spicier, make sure you’re picking a type that suits your taste and growing conditions.
Start Indoors
Start your green pepper seeds indoors about 8-10 weeks before the last frost date. Use seed trays or small pots, and plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep.
Keep the soil moist and warm – around 70-75°F is ideal for germination. Once they sprout, make sure they get plenty of light.
Transplant Carefully
After the danger of frost has passed and your seedlings are strong enough, move them outdoors. Pick a spot in your garden with full sunlight.
Space them about 18-24 inches apart in rows that are 24-36 inches apart. This gives them space to grow and lots of air circulation.
Water Properly
Green peppers like their water, but don’t drown them! Water them deeply, about one to two inches per week.
It’s better to give them a good soak less frequently than to water them shallowly every day. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy.
Feed Them Well
Green peppers need their nutrients. When you transplant, mix in some compost or a balanced fertilizer.
You can also give them a boost with a side dressing of fertilizer when they start to flower. Just be careful not to overdo it – too much fertilizer can lead to lots of leaves but not many peppers.
Control Pests Naturally
Watch out for pests like aphids and spider mites. You can control these naturally with insecticidal soap or by introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs.
Keeping your garden clean and free of debris also helps minimize pest problems.
Harvest at the Right Time
Green peppers are ready to harvest when they’re firm and green, or you can wait a bit longer for them to change color. Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut them off the plant to avoid damaging the stem.
Freshly harvested peppers taste the best, so enjoy them straight from the garden!
Store Your Peppers
If you have more peppers than you can use right away, don’t worry. They store well in the fridge for up to two weeks.
You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just wash, chop, and place them in freezer bags.