How to Grow Bell Peppers

More than 200 cultivars of bell peppers (Capsicum annuum) exist, making it the largest group of cultivated peppers. Most varieties reach maturity in 60 to 90 days, bearing 10 to 20 blocky, thick-walled, sweet fruits per plant under ideal conditions. Bell peppers rely on good growing conditions more than hands-on care to produce a hefty yield. However, a little routine maintenance during the growing season will help them reach their full potential.

Bell peppers love warmth, although they respond poorly to very hot conditions. The ideal temperature range for growing them is between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 60 to 70 degrees F at night. Temperatures above 90 F can cause blossom drop, while nighttime temperatures below 60 F or above 75 F can reduce fruit yield. Reduce the effect of unfavorable temperatures by growing bell peppers in a lightly shaded, sheltered location against a south-facing wall.

As with most pepper varieties, bell peppers need bright light and fast-draining soil to perform well. Choose a south-facing bed with eight to 10 hours of direct sun and some very light shade during the hottest part of the day. The soil must be organically rich with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. Amend the top 12 to 15 inches of heavy or compacted soil with a 2- to 4-inch layer of compost to improve its texture, drainage and moisture retention. Avoid growing bell peppers in the same bed more than once every four years, because the soil may develop bacterial and fungal colonies that prey on nightshade crops such as peppers.

The proper planting techniques factor greatly into the overall success of bell pepper plants. Wait until daytime temperatures have warmed to 70 F and nighttime temperatures to 50 F before planting bell peppers. Space them 15 to 18 inches apart in the prepared bed, placing a 2-foot wire cage over each plant to support its branches. After planting, spread a 2-inch layer of straw or other lightweight mulch around each plant, pulling it back from the stems, to keep the soil moist and the bed free from weeds.

Bell peppers need constant moisture during the growing season. Inadequate water can cause stress-related damage to the plant, as well as shriveled, bitter-tasting fruit. Give bell peppers 1 inch of water weekly, thoroughly moistening the top 6 to 15 inches of soil at each watering. Too much soil moisture can also cause damage, so let the soil dry out on the surface between waterings. Provide extra water during hot, dry weather, especially if the plant wilts. Mulch helps regulate moisture loss, so maintain a 2-inch-thick layer of straw or grass-clipping mulch around the plants.

Despite their vigorous growth and large fruit yield, bell peppers are not heavy feeders. Most plants perform well in compost-amended soil with no added fertilizers. However, those that show signs of nutrient deficiency such as pale foliage or sluggish growth may need fertilizer to support their growth. Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of 15-15-15 or 7-9-5 analysis fertilizer in 1 gallon of water and replace one watering every two weeks with the solution. Bell peppers often produce leggy stems, excess foliage or significantly fewer blossoms when overfed. Stop feeding immediately if signs of overfeeding occur.