Peppers, Sweet

Water: Medium, heavy

Fertilize: Every two weeks

General Information: 

Peppers are heat loving vegetable and do not particularly like our cool summer nights in Manitoba. Therefore it is best to do what we can to make them comfortable in the garden and help them thrive. Planting peppers on the south side of tall plants like corn in your garden will help. Or plant  peppers in a raised garden bed on the south side of a building. Some gardeners plant peppers in a raised bed made of a tractor tire. Raised soil drains more easily and remains warmer than soggy soil. The black tire heats the soil in the daytime and retains more heat at night. Just what a pepper needs!

 The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility and drainage.

When planting pepper plants, space them about 18-24 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and growth. Water the plants regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the base of the plants can help conserve moisture and suppress weed growth.

Fertilize your pepper plants regularly with a balanced fertilizer to provide them with the nutrients they need for healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit production.

Peppers are prone to certain pests and diseases, such as aphids, flea beetles, and bacterial spot. Monitor your plants regularly and take appropriate measures, such as using organic insecticides or practicing crop rotation, to prevent and manage these issues.