Growing Capsicum, also Bell peppers, Sweet peppers

Capsicum annuum : Solanaceae / the nightshade family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec

Not recommended for growing in New Zealand - cool/mountain regions

  • Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 18°C and 35°C. (Show °F/in)
  • Space plants: 20 - 50 cm apart
  • Harvest in 10-12 weeks. Cut fruit off with sharp knife.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Egg plant (Aubergine), Nasturtiums, Basil, Parsley, Amaranth

Your comments and tips

07 Dec 07, Sally (Unknown climate)
do you know why my leaves are turning black and falling off my capsicum plant
Showing 521 - 521 of 521 comments

Blossom drop is common early in the season. The number one cause is that temperatures are not yet quite right. Like tomatoes, if it is too cool or too hot fruit will not set. Capsicums like night time temps to be above about 16 C for fruit set. Also if daytime temps are too high (above about 35) fruit will not set. There is probably minor variation among varieties in the actual optimal temperature range, but you get the idea...Generally patience is the only remedy required. Other possible causes are not enough airflow (capsicums are primarily wind pollinated), too much nitrogen, not enough water, too much water...

- Tracey

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