How to grow peppers

Choosing a plot

In the UK most people choose to plant peppers in a greenhouse, as this ensures that the temperature can be kept stable; at least 18ᵒC. Growing peppers in containers requires a little more attention than planting into the ground, but this is often better suited to the UK climate.

If you are growing your peppers outside shelter your plants from wind. A warm sunny spot, such as at the base of a wall is good. The soil should drain well to avoid excess moisture causing the plants to rot.

Planting

If growing in containers, once two leaves have formed, transplant into a pot about 8cm (3in) in diameter. If planting directly into the ground, place approximately 45cm (18in) apart. Sowing can begin as early as February, although the main month for sowing is throughout May. Don’t plant the seedlings more than 6mm (¼ in) into the soil, or the seedlings will struggle to grow.

If growing in containers, the early peppers will need to be transplanted into a container of approximately 30cm (12in) in late April, or in late May if planted later. To ensure a good rate of growth, keep seedlings moist, but not soggy.

Nurturing

It is important to keep your plants well watered, particularly in warm weather or if growing in a container, and it may be necessary to water them every day. When flowers begin to appear, usually in June, begin to feed the plants with liquid feed, such as one suitable for tomatoes.

Pepper plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to aphids, although it is relatively easy to protect your plants by washing these off of the leaves. Other problems can arise if your plants are exposed to frost, so it is worth covering your plants if a late frost is expected.

Harvesting

A productive plant will provide between 3 and 8 peppers. Peppers can be harvested once the fruit is green and glossy, but leaving the fruit on the tree will allow it to turn yellow, orange and then red. The fruit becomes sweeter the longer it is left on the tree; however, this does reduce the yield.

When harvesting peppers, cut the fruit from the branch using shears or a sharp knife as pulling the peppers off of the plant can break the branches. Peppers can be ready as early as July going through to October, depending on the variety of pepper and the type of weather during the growing season.