If you continually pick the peppers before they mature, the plants will continue to produce fruit in their quest to develop viable seed.Īllowing fruits to fully ripen enhances flavor, often at the sacrifice of yields. This creates a dilemma for the home gardener.įrequent harvesting increases yields, often at the sacrifice of flavor. Peppers can be harvested at any stage of growth, but their flavor doesn't fully develop until maturity. The traditional bell pepper, for example, is harvested green, even though most varieties will mature red, orange, or yellow. Like cucumbers and summer squash, peppers are usually harvested at an immature stage. With basic precautions, you can keep your peppers Generally, peppers are problem-free from pests and disease, but the same pests and diseases that plague tomatoes and eggplants will occasionally attack them. Just follow the directions for your favorite vegetable fertilizer. This tends to make the plants develop lush foliage at the expense of fruit production. Use mulch to prevent excessive evaporation from the soil during the dry summer months.ĭon't overfertilize. To maintain a proper balance, work some organic matter such as compost or humus into the soil when planting to enhance moisture retention. The soil must drain well, yet hold enough moisture to keep the plants in production. However, they won't tolerate saturated soil that waterlogs their roots. Peppers are thirsty plants! They need a moderate supply of water from the moment you plant them until the end of the season. Don't use wire twist-ties or twine which will gradually choke off or even snap the stem. For support, loosely tie the plants to stakes using rubber bands to allow for the expansion that comes with growing. Pepper plants are easily damaged when laden with fruit.
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