Bell pepper care guide
Capsicum annuum
Also known as: Sweet pepper, Shishito pepper, Chili pepper
Pets and children
Caution advised
The leaves and stems carry nightshade compounds that can upset a dog's or cat's stomach, and hot varieties' fruit burns the mouth, so keep the plant out of reach and see a veterinarian (or a doctor, for a child) if it is eaten.
How often to water Bell pepper
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 2 days
- Water thoroughly once the topsoil dries, as a guide; fruiting plants drink a lot, so check every morning in midsummer.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 3 days
- Harvest continues into about October; the soil dries more slowly, so water about a day after the topsoil dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 5 days
- Generally out of season outdoors; a plant kept indoors gets a sparing watering about two to three days after the soil dries.
Light and placement for Bell pepper
A sunny, airy spot is about right; stake the brittle branches, and if the fruit bleaches in strong midsummer sun, light shade generally helps.
Overwintering Bell pepper
Overwintering guide: 10°C (50°F) or above
It is generally grown as an annual and finished before the first frost; being a perennial by nature, it can sometimes be kept over at a bright window above about 10°C with sparing water.
Fertilizing and repotting Bell pepper
Fertilizer
A heavy feeder: from two to three weeks after planting, slow-release fertilizer about monthly or liquid feed every two weeks is the usual guide; when it runs short the flowers drop and the fruit stays small.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Bell pepper
- When fertilizer runs out, the flowers keep dropping and no fruit sets.
- Letting the first fruit grow large exhausts the plant and cuts later yields.
- Drought or a nutrient shortage rots the tip of the fruit black.
Tips for growing Bell pepper
- Picking the first fruit while still small lets the plant build strength.
- Remove the side shoots below the first flower and train three main branches for good airflow.
- Harvesting the fruit young and often keeps the plant producing into autumn.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
