Peppers and chiles are warm weather lovers that range from sweet and mild to fiery hot.
Growing Great Peppers and Chiles
Cultural Tips for Growing Peppers, UC IPM
Planting
- Transplant in May to June, possibly late April depending on weather and local conditions.
- For best results, wait until daytime temperatures are regularly over 75°F.
- If growing your own seedlings, start the seeds 8 weeks before you want to plant.
- For large fruited varieties, pinch off any flowers/fruits for the first 2 to 3 weeks to allow the plant to establish a good root system before supporting fruits.
Harvesting
Pick pods at the right color for each variety. Some are best eaten green, others have more flavor when pods are red, orange or yellow.
Pest management
Pepper pests and disorders, UC IPM
Other links
- Video: How to Stake Pepper Plants [1:59]
- Video: 17 Chile Varieties You Can Grow [7:20]
- Video: You Can Grow Trinidad Moruga Scorpion Chiles [5:09]
- Video: Growing Tomatoes and Peppers Successfully [1:29:28]
- PDF: Peppers/chiles
Recommended varieties for Santa Clara County*
Sweet peppers: Carmen, Corno di Toro (red and yellow), Marconi (red and yellow), Romanian Gogosari
Mild peppers/chiles: NuMex Big Jim, NuMex Suave Orange, Padrón,
Hot peppers/chiles: Aji Amarillo, Habanero, Espelette, Rocoto
Also, see our list of Spring Garden Fair pepper varieties.
* Many other varieties may also do well here in Santa Clara County. This list is based on UC Master Gardener trials, taste tests, and feedback from local growers.