Growing Peppers

• Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost. (usually mid Jan. in zone 9) see How to start seeds
• Germination temperature: 80-85 degrees
• 6-21 days to germinate (moisture & temperature could effect germination times) For optimal and faster germination use a heating mat.
• Plant in garden or pots( 4-5 gallon) when 8-10 weeks old & well developed.
• Space 12 inches apart in beds
• Full sun, in heat of summer keep well watered they might wilt in late afternoon but will perk up when sun goes down.
• 60-75 days to harvest from planting in ground. Pepper plants will last years if they don’t freeze and are taken care of.
• Can also be grown in containers at least 12 inches deep in organic potting soil.
• Fertilize monthly with an organic granular.  May also use liquid fish emulsion weekly if needed.
• If saving the seeds do not let cross pollinate.  Either isolate the plants, or only grow one variety at a time.
• Stake & tie up as needed for support
• To save seeds scrape seeds off veins and dry in cool place for at least 2 weeks till they crack when bent.

Peppers like heat so don’t put in ground too soon. Usually Feb.-April is good. I always start them in cells, than after about 4 weeks pot up to 3-4″ pots which should hold them until planting out. Fertilize with fish emulsion every 2 weeks and continue through harvest. Harvest 60-75 days green or red, they average about 2″ long. If saving seeds wait till they are red and a little over ripe. Then cut open and scrape out seeds. Use gloves if they are hot!! Lay seeds on plate and dry.