We are well into the summer season with the heat in full effect. Parts of southern Ontario have experienced a heatwave the past couple of days, and it’s only going to get hotter -- with peppers growing in your garden that is!
If you are just entering your gardening era or need some inspiration about what to grow this summer, peppers are great to start for your vegetable garden! Read on to discover tips on successfully growing an abundant supply of peppers in your garden!
Chili Peppers vs. Bell Peppers
As members of the genus Capsicum annuum, peppers are broadly divided into two groups: chili peppers and bell peppers.
Chili peppers have many other species that are found around the world. They have a variety of flavours that range from sweet to smoky – which is an important component for the creation of hot sauces!
Bell peppers on the other hand were grown to be free from the spiciness -- also known as capsaicinoids, the substances that give chilies their heat! They are often eaten during all stages of growth, ranging from the colours green to yellow, orange, and red. The more mature the peppers are, the more vitamins enriched and sweeter they taste!
Best Growing Conditions for Peppers
Growing peppers is relatively easy, especially for first-time gardeners! Below are tips on how to successfully grow peppers
Seedlings: It is important to start growing bell peppers in warmer temperatures for the seeds to germinate. Wait to transplant the seedlings outdoors when the temperature reaches above 10 degrees Celsius (50F), aka once the last frost has passed. A frost will either kill the plants altogether or reduce pepper growth, leaving you with bare plants.
Soil: Since pepper plants develop a deep root system, they should be placed in the soil 18 to 24 inches (46-60 cm) apart. The soil should be well drained before you plant the peppers into the ground. A lack of drainage could waterlog the plant, creating the possibility for yellowing leaves. Add mulch around the base of the plant to make sure the plant retains moisture and cools under the hot sun.
Sun: As previously stated, peppers thrive under warmer conditions. Planting peppers in areas that receive 6-8 hours of sunlight a day is beneficial for a higher yield.
Water: With the sun constantly on deep watering method: water less frequently but thoroughly to encourage deep root growth. Ensure the soil is dry to the touch at the top before watering again. Using mulch can help retain moisture and prevent weeds, and avoid overhead watering to deter pests and diseases.
Companion Planting: They’ll enjoy being planted near your tomato plants, as well as planting in containers!
Flowers: Pinch off the blossoms for the first couple of weeks to direct the energy into growing the plant.
Providing Support for Pepper Plants
Literally speaking, setting up a stake for your pepper plants will support the weight of the heavy fruits, preventing the plants from leaning or breaking under the weight of the fruit.
Another way to support your pepper plants is by regularly inspecting the plants for signs of pests and diseases. A great way to combat this issue is to companion plant with tomatoes, which also helps provide good air circulation. Avoid overhead watering to keep leaves dry and not create a bacterial diseases.
Benefits of Using Fertilizer on Pepper Plants
It’s encouraged to start fertilizing your peppers as soon as the first flowers start to appear, and continue fertilizing weekly. With our organic biofertilizer, you can start as early as the seedling stage! This will create a healthy soil environment for the seedling where it will pack all the nutrients it needs to grow a stronger root system.
Harvesting Pepper Plants for a Higher Yield
Harvesting bell peppers and chili peppers are relatively similar! They can be harvested at any stage of development, depending on your taste preference. They start from green, then turn to yellow, orange, then red. Peppers left to mature on the vine will not only change colours, but it also increases the vitamins and change the flavour!
Start Growing the Best Peppers!
As we pass the peak of summer with temperatures soaring, growing peppers in your garden will benefit from this weather! Whether you're a novice gardener or looking for inspiration for your summer crops, peppers are an excellent choice to kickstart your vegetable garden, and hopefully these tips help you grow your most bountiful pepper harvest yet!
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Blogger Biography
Freda is a Toronto-based social media and digital marketer. New to the plant world, she is looking forward to learning all the tips and tricks on how to keep her plant babies thriving! If she's not walking her maltipoo Leo, you can find her practicing yoga or enjoying live music.
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