When should you plant peppers?

Timing your pepper planting can significantly impact your chances of a successful harvest. These heat-loving vegetables require warm soil temperatures and frost-free environments. If you plant too early, the cold may stunt and delay growth. If you plant too late, fruits may not ripen properly before fall's chill. Timing it right may give you bountiful, colorful peppers all season!

Soil preparation is crucial for growing peppers successfully. Work compost into the beds before planting. Peppers require good, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8. Place plants 18 to 24 inches apart from each other. I put calcium in the soil to prevent blossom end rot (a soil nutrient deficiency). Good spacing keeps diseases from spreading.

Temperature management maintains young plants. Use cloches if night temperatures drop below 55°F. Floating row covers provide wind protection. Black plastic mulch heats the soil quickly. I pay close attention to night temperatures, especially during the early stages of growth. Constant warmth produces higher yields.

Watering practices have an impact on fruit quality. Water deeply 1-2 times weekly. Drip irrigation can reduce leaf wetness. Irregular watering can lead to blossom drop. I mulch with straw to hold moisture. Peppers prefer consistent moisture but do not want to sit in wet soil.

When to Harvest enhances flavor. Harvest bell peppers when firm and shiny. Hot peppers become increasingly spicy as they mature. Use scissors to prevent damaging the stem. I harvest continuously to encourage more fruit production. Plants produce fruit until the first frost in the fall.

Read the full article: When to Plant Vegetable Garden: Ultimate Guide