Bell Peppers
Capsicum annuum
Learn how to care for bell peppers along with its history and classification details.
Hardiness Zone: 9-11
Soil Type: Slightly acidic to neutral
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Annual or Perennial: Perennial
Type: Vegetable
History: Bell peppers originated in Mexico, Central America, and South America. Peppers were named by Christopher Columbus and Spanish explorers who were searching for peppercorn plants to produce black pepper. Columbus took samples of a wide variety of peppers back to Europe where they became quite popular.
In dreams the bell pepper is a symbol of change for the better.
How to Care for Bell Peppers
How do I plant bell peppers?
Fill a planting tray with soil and plant your bell pepper seeds a quarter of an inch deep. Water, provide sun, and keep them warm—you can place the seeds near a heating pad if necessary. Keep your seeds in temperatures of at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
When is the best time to plant?
The best time to plant bell peppers is spring.
How do I propagate bell peppers?
Seeds should, ideally, be taken from ripe peppers because green, unripe peppers do not have fully developed seeds and their germination rate is low.
Can I grow bell peppers in a pot?
Yes, you can grow bell peppers in a pot, take care, it may outgrow the pot at some point.
How much should I water bell peppers?
Bell peppers should be watered 1-2 inches per week.
Do I need to fertilize bell peppers?
Yes, you should fertilize bell peppers frequently.
When does bell peppers bloom?
Bell peppers will bloom during summer.
How do I know when a bell pepper is ripe?
A ripe bell pepper will have a shiny tinge and feel firm in the hand, whilst also smooth to touch.
When do I harvest bell peppers?
You can harvest bell peppers when the fruit is still green, but full sized.
What is the best way to store bell peppers?
Sweet peppers will last approximately 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator, but can also be frozen. For best preservation of flavor and quality, store peppers in a plastic bag in the vegetable crisper of your refrigerator.
Is a bell pepper a fruit or a vegetable?
The bell pepper is a vegetable.
Should I plant any companion plants?
Bell peppers grows well with carrots, cucumbers, radishes, squash, and members of the Allium family all do well when grown in close proximity to peppers. Eggplant, a member of the nightshade family along with peppers, thrives alongside peppers. Spinach, lettuce, and chard are suitable pepper companions.
What are the health benefits of the bell pepper?
Bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, especially the ripest peppers, which are red. Peppers are also a good source of vitamin A and fiber. Bell peppers also have antioxidant properties, which may help to protect against diseases such as cardiovascular disease and some cancers.
Ratatouille
Ratatouille is a great way to get almost all your vegetables from the garden into 1 dish. It’s also delicious. Check out this easy recipe.
Quotes are like cayenne pepper or some other strong spice: a little goes a long way, and too much is a disaster.
~Ben Yogoda