Planting and Growing Guide for Sweet Peppers (Capsicum annuum)
Description
Sweet peppers are a dwarf form of Capsicums. They are from the same family as chilli, but are sweet rather than hot. They were grown as ornamentals in flower gardens before people realised that they could be eaten and were not poisonous!! Capsicums and sweet peppers can be sliced and used raw in salads, fried or roasted. Stuffed capsicums are a delight. An easy way to cook them is to brushing them with oil and roast at high temperature. Of they can be grilled or barbecued. When starting to char, rub off the skin, remove the seeds and slice. Capsicums will freeze successfully without blanching if seeded and sliced. As with most vegetables they taste best when used just after harvesting. Be patient as capsicums can take a long time to develop fruit (up to 3 months or so). All capsicums are green initially, but will eventually develop their red, yellow, orange, black or purple tinges. The longer you wait the sweeter the capsicums will be.
Planting Guide
Seed Depth: Sow seed directly in the soil at a depth about 8 mm (1/2 inch). Grow in seed trays in sheltered areas away from frosts
Space between plants: 25-45 cm (12 inches). Sow seeds at half this spacing and thin when established, or replant from seed trays.
Harvest Time: Harvest in about 10 weeks. Can be continuously harvested
Hints:
- Keep well watered and beware they are frost tender
- Cover plants in Spring if late frosts expected
- Grow best in full sun and warm conditions
- Grow best in rich, well drained soils with good covering of compost
- Warm conditions are needed to ripen to red and yellow colors, which are sweeter than the green ones.
- Weed well in the early stages. Make regular, deep waterings throughout the growing period
- Enrich the soil with calcium (dolomite or lime) to help prevent blossom end rot
- Raw Capsicum can be easily frozen without blanching. Remove the seeds, slice and freeze in portion bags for easy use
- There are many varieties with various shapes sizes and colors
Disclaimer: The PlantWhatWhen vegetable planting guide is only designed for use as a very general reference for home gardening purposes. It is not to be used for farming, markets or commercial activities of any kind whatsoever. We take absolutely no responsibility for the accuracy and adequacy of the information provided on this site. We recommend that you consider your local climate, weather patterns and conditions when deciding what and when to plant in your home garden. It's entirely your own decision. Happy Gardening and Best Wishes!