When to Plant: Plant peppers after the last danger of frost has passed. Plants will do better as days become more consistently warm. Harden off young plants by placing them outdoors a few days before planting.

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Light: Full Sun (Pot varieties tolerate part sun, but need at least 6+ hours of light/day to fruit.)

Soil: Well-drained soil is best, but like tomatoes, peppers can tolerate heavier soils as well. If planting in a container, use general-purpose potting mix.

Water deeply when the top 3-4” of soil or potting mix is dry.

If planted in a container, try a slow-release fertilizer for easy care, following the recommended bottle rates. Sometimes, potting mixes incorporate slow release fertilizer that lasts for 6 months.

For in ground gardening, fertilize with a side dressing of granular fertilizer when first planting in the garden and again when plants begin to set fruit. After fruit set begins, fertilize every 2-4 weeks. Watering the granular in deeply after each application.

Using a granular 5-10-10 or similar ratio of N-P-K is important in peppers to balance fruit set and leafy growth.

Harvest peppers while green or after ripening to a bright color (color depends on the variety/cultivar).

Peppers (especially large fruited peppers) have issues with sun scorch during the summer. To avoid, water plants in the morning to prevent wet fruit in the afternoon, and plant in an east exposure where possible.