Seed Depth: 1/4 inch

Seed Spacing: 12–18 inches

Row Spacing: 24–36 inches

Sunlight: Full sun

Days to Sprout: 7–14 days

Days to Maturity: 60–70 days

Growth Habit: Upright, bushy annual

Sunlight: Requires full sun, with at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Soil Type: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–6.8. Enrich soil with compost or organic matter for best results.

When to Plant: Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last frost. Transplant seedlings outdoors once the danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures reach at least 65°F.

Direct Sowing: Not recommended; starting indoors ensures better germination and growth.

Indoor Sowing: Sow seeds in trays 1/4 inch deep. Transplant when seedlings have 4–6 true leaves and nighttime temperatures are consistently above 50°F.

Succession Planting: Not typically needed, as plants produce continuously throughout the growing season.

Watering: Water deeply and consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.

Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer or compost at planting and apply additional phosphorus and potassium during flowering and fruiting stages.

Pruning: Remove any yellowing leaves and pinch off the first flowers to encourage bushier growth and higher yields.

Pest and Disease Control: Monitor for aphids, whiteflies, and fungal diseases. Use organic treatments or companion planting for pest management.

When to Harvest: Harvest when peppers are firm, glossy, and 2–3 inches long, typically 60–70 days after transplanting. For a sweeter, smokier flavor, allow peppers to turn red on the plant.

How to Harvest: Use scissors or pruning shears to cut peppers from the plant to avoid damaging stems.

Seed Collection: Allow peppers to fully ripen on the plant, then remove seeds and dry thoroughly.

Storing Seeds: Store seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.