Peppers need full sunlight and rich, well-drained soil that has been amended with compost or well-rotted manure. Fertilize the plants about six weeks after planting. Water as needed to keep the soil moist but never soggy. A thin layer of mulch will prevent evaporation and keep weeds in check. Peppers are ready to harvest when they’re10-15 cm long, approximately 65-80 days after transplanting to the garden.

Start seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before the last frost. Keep the tray in a well-lit area and bottom heat will increase the germination rate. Seeds should germinate in 14 days. Use of a row tunnel until the ground temperature is 18C is advised, when the summer heat reaches nights of 10 C or more remove the row tunnel to help with pollination. Peppers are open-pollinated so plant near other plants which attracts beneficial insects.

These pepper plants take up a fair amount of room and are sturdy plants. Staking them is advised since they are heavy producers. Plant at least 90 cm apart and fertilize at 6 weeks then every 3 weeks after.

Never plant them next to beans, Brassicas, or fennel. Planting with parsley, carrots, tomatoes, swiss chard, or oregano.