There’s something deeply satisfying about walking out to your garden in flip-flops and plucking a shiny red pepper off the vine. Peppers are one of the most rewarding summer crops you can grow — they love sun, come in a rainbow of shapes and colors, and grow surprisingly well in backyard gardens, raised beds, and even containers.
Whether you’re growing sweet bells for stuffed peppers or fiery jalapeños for taco night, here’s everything you need to know.
When to Plant Peppers
Peppers are heat lovers. They absolutely will not tolerate cold soil or chilly nights. Wait until:
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Your last frost date has passed
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Night temperatures are consistently above 55°F
In zone 6a, that usually means planting peppers outside in mid- to late May.
If you’re starting from seed indoors, aim for 8–10 weeks before your last frost date and use a heat mat — peppers need cozy soil to germinate.
Required Supplies
Pepper starts or seeds (choose varieties that suit your climate and kitchen)
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Compost or organic matter
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Balanced organic fertilizer or bone meal
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Mulch (straw, shredded leaves, or compost)
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Stakes or cages for support
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A sunny garden spot (6–8+ hours of sunlight)
Choosing Pepper Varieties
You don’t need a pepper obsession to enjoy variety. A few reliable types to try:
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Bell peppers: 'California Wonder', 'King of the North'
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Mini sweet peppers: 'Lunchbox Mix'
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Mild to hot: 'Poblano', 'Hungarian Hot Wax', 'Jalapeño Early'
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For spice lovers: 'Cayenne', 'Serrano', or 'Habanero' if you're bold
If you're gardening in a cooler climate, look for “short season” or early-maturing varieties on the seed packet.
Planting & Spacing
Peppers like rich, well-drained soil amended with compost.
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Space plants 18–24 inches apart — give them room to grow.
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Plant deep, up to the first set of true leaves, to encourage strong roots.
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Water well after planting and mulch right away to hold moisture and warmth.
Companions to plant nearby: Basil (improves flavor and repels pests), onions, carrots, marigolds
Keep away from: Beans, fennel, or kohlrabi — they’re not the best neighbors
Ongoing Care
Sunlight: Peppers need at least 6–8 hours of sun per day.
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Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist. Don’t let them dry out or get waterlogged. Deep, consistent watering is key.
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Fertilize: Once flowers appear, feed lightly with compost tea or organic fertilizer every 2–3 weeks.
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Support: As plants grow, stake or cage them to keep heavy fruit from bending or snapping branches.
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Pruning: You can pinch off the first few flowers on young plants to encourage strong root development before fruiting.
Harvesting
Harvest when fruit reaches full size and desired color — don’t rush!
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Green bell peppers can be picked early, but if you leave them on the plant, they’ll turn red, yellow, or orange depending on variety.
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For hot peppers, the longer they ripen, the hotter they get.
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Always cut peppers from the plant with scissors or snips — don’t yank.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Blossom End Rot: Water consistently and ensure soil calcium levels are steady.
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Sunscald: White, papery patches on fruit = too much direct sun. Keep plants well-leafed and mulched.
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Aphids: Spray with a sharp stream of water or treat with neem oil.
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Slow growth or poor fruiting: Usually a sign of not enough sun or nutrients — topdress with compost.
Garden Notes
Peppers take their sweet time. Once they’re in the ground, they’ll spend a while just settling in and growing roots. Then one day, out of nowhere, you’ll notice flowers everywhere — and soon after, fruit. Don’t give up on them early. They’re slow, but they’re worth it.xo, Lisa