How to Grow Bell Pepper

A warm-season fruiting for the home garden across the warmer US.

Bell Pepper is a rewarding warm-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Plant Bell Pepper in spring once the soil has warmed and all frost has passed. In the warmest regions a second crop is possible in late summer. See your region on the bell pepper page for exact timing.

Varieties

• California Wonder, Classic blocky green-to-red bell (Burpee)
• Cubanelle, Thin-walled frying pepper that takes the heat (Baker Creek)

How to grow it

• Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
• Spacing: about 45 cm (18 in) between plants.
• Sowing: barely cover the seed.
• Water: roughly 8 L per plant every 2 days in hot weather.
• Containers: grows well in a pot of 30cm+.

Pests & problems

Watch for Aphids. In humid regions, Bacterial spot and Blossom end rot can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Bell Pepper is usually ready to harvest in about 3 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant bell pepper where you garden.

See also: Bell Pepper in the plant library →

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