Peppers: Heat, Sweetness, and Everything Between

Sweet and chilli peppers are closely related, and both need the same basic conditions: warmth, sun and a long growing season. In cooler climates, start early and protect plants.

Start early

Sow indoors 8–10 weeks before last frost at 21–25°C. Use a heat mat if possible; germination is slow and uneven without warmth. Pot on as seedlings grow and harden off only when nights are reliably above 10°C.

Planting

Choose the sunniest, most sheltered spot. Improve soil with compost and ensure good drainage. Space plants 40–50 cm apart. In cool regions, grow under cloches, in a polytunnel or against a warm wall.

Water and feed

Keep moisture consistent; peppers dislike both drought and waterlogging. Feed with a balanced fertiliser until flowers set, then switch to a higher-potassium feed. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which produces leaves at the expense of fruit.

Support and prune

Tall varieties benefit from a stake. Pinch out the growing tip of some sweet peppers to encourage branching. Remove the first flowers on young plants if you want stronger growth before fruiting.

Harvest

Sweet peppers are ready when fully coloured and glossy. Chillies can be picked green or left to ripen for more flavour and heat. Cut with a short stalk to avoid damaging the plant. Wear gloves when handling hot varieties.