Today we are going to share with you how to maximize your pepper harvest this season. Peppers, whether spicy or sweet are perfect for a container garden. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about planting, nurturing, and harvesting peppers in containers. Super simple and the rewards are tasty.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT CONTAINERS
When it comes to container gardening, selecting the right container is key for the success of your pepper plants. Peppers develop a robust root system and need room to grow. You also need to pick a container that will not stay waterlogged. Peppers like to stay moist but not wet which leads to root rot. Here are three things to consider when picking a pot for your peppers:
- Size matters. Your pepper seedling will fill out a 5-7 gallon container as it grows. Make sure to choose a container that is at least 10 inches deep. If you are adding herbs to your pepper garden, make sure to give each plant enough room for airflow as they mature.
- Drainage do’s and don’ts. Peppers need good soil that will drain freely and a container that has good drainage. Another reason why growing in grow bags is a great choice for peppers is that they drain easily.
- Consider Grow Bags. Grow Bags offer flexibility and can easily move around to maximize sun or shade exposure. Grow Bags are also breathable and will help you maintain a nice moisture balance.
PLANT YOUR PEPPERS AT THE RIGHT TIME, IN THE RIGHT SOIL, AND IN THE RIGHT PLACE
Peppers, both sweet and hot like warm soil and sunny days. Plant them when your outdoor temperatures are consistently above 65 degrees. The ideal growing temperature for pepper plants is 70-85 degrees. When the summer heat gets really hot, make sure to move your peppers into the afternoon shade.
Peppers like bright sunlight, at least 6-8 hours of direct sun per day, another reason why growing peppers in containers is such a great idea. Moving them around throughout the season can extend the growing period and increase your pepper harvest.
Pick the right soil. Soil really matters, so pick soil that is rich in nutrients and will drain well. Opt for a high-quality soil mix designed for container gardening. These soils are formulated to retain moisture and drain well. We are fans of the Gardenuity Foundation, a custom soil blend by Meyer Soil.
Plant your peppers in a hold so that the top of the root-ball is level with the ground surface. (Do not plant deeply like tomatoes, or the plant may not thrive. When you are done planting, pat the soil around the roots to avoid air pockets, and water thoroughly. This is key to help settle the soil and start the plant.
PICK THE RIGHT PEPPER
There are over 50,000 pepper varieties reported globally, so pick a pepper that you will enjoy eating. The main categories of Peppers include:
Sweet Peppers: These include the well-known Bell peppers, which come in colors such as red, yellow, orange, and green. Other sweet varieties are Banana peppers, Pimento peppers, and sweet Cherry peppers.
Hot Peppers: This category includes a range of peppers with varying heat levels, measured in Scoville Heat Units (SHU). Examples include Jalapeño (mild to moderate heat), Habanero (very hot), and the notoriously intense Carolina Reaper.
Mildly Hot Peppers: These peppers offer a hint of heat but are not overwhelmingly spicy. Examples include Anaheim and Poblano peppers.
Ornamental Peppers: Grown primarily for their aesthetic value, these peppers can range in heat and often boast vibrant, multi-colored appearances.
A few of our favorite varieties include, but are not limited to:
Shishito- Shishito peppers are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. They are commonly served blistered, which involves quick grilling or sautéing over high heat until they are charred in spots. This method enhances their flavor and makes for a delicious appetizer or side dish, often simply seasoned with sea salt. They can also be used in stir-fries, pickled, or stuffed with various fillings.
Sweet Bell- Sweet peppers, commonly known as bell peppers, are a mild, non-spicy variety of the Capsicum annum species. They are incredibly popular in cuisines around the world due to their sweet flavor and crunchy texture. These peppers are distinguished by their bell-like shape and come in various vibrant colors, including green, red, yellow, orange, and sometimes even purple or chocolate brown.
Jalapeno- Jalapeño peppers can be used both fresh and cooked. They are commonly found in salsas and dips and make excellent pickles. They are also delicious when stuffed with cheeses or meats, breaded, and fried as jalapeño poppers. Roasting or grilling jalapeños enhances their sweetness and mellows their heat. Their versatility extends to various dishes such as tacos, nachos, stews, and even infused into oils or used in jams for a spicy kick.
Poblano- Poblano peppers are a popular variety of chili peppers originating from Mexico, specifically the state of Puebla, which is where they get their name. Known for their mild heat and rich, earthy flavor, poblanos are a versatile ingredient in many culinary dishes, especially in Mexican cuisine.
Banana Pepper- Banana peppers, known for their bright yellow color resembling a banana, are a mild, tangy pepper variety that belongs to the Capsicum annuum species. They are popular in many cuisines, especially in pickled form. Their mild flavor and slight sweetness make them versatile for both fresh and cooked applications.
BASIC GROWING TIPS FOR PEPPERS
Keep the soil consistently moist. If you let the soil completely dry out between waterings your peppers may get blossom end rot. If your pepper plant has curled leaves it may be thirsty. Revive it by soaking the container all the way through. The best way to check and see if your pepper garden needs some water is to put your finger into your garden at least 2 inches. If it is dry, it needs some water.
Feeding your Pepper Plants. Remember to feed the soil, when the soil that your pepper plant is growing in is healthy and thriving it will feed the plants.
Staking Your Pepper Plants. We always recommend staking your pepper plant right from the start. Place a stake next to the main stem and loosely tie the stem to the stake with twine. As the pepper plant grows you may consider adding a longer bamboo stake for added measure.
Harvest Happy. You can begin harvesting your peppers once they are fully grown. The more you harvest the more the plant will produce. Sweet varieties usually take 70-90 days to ripen, while hot peppers can take up to 100 days or more. Harvest by snipping the pepper off with clean scissors leaving a short bit of the stem attached to the pepper.
If you are growing with Gardenuity remember the entire Grow Pro team is ready to grow with you!
