Field guide
How to grow pepper (sweet/bell): planting, care, and harvest guide
Pepper (Sweet/Bell) typically reaches first harvest in 60–90 days. This guide covers when to plant by USDA zone, common pests, harvest cues, and companion plants where relevant.
Open plannerWhen to plant pepper (sweet/bell) by USDA zone group
- USDA Zones 1–4 — June
- USDA Zones 5–6 — May to June
- USDA Zones 7–8 — April to May
- USDA Zones 9–10 — March to April
- USDA Zones 11–13 — February to March
Companion plants
Good companions: Basil, Tomato (Cherry), Tomato (Slicing), Carrots, Onions
Avoid planting with: Florence Fennel, beans
Harvest
When to pick
- Green peppers are technically ripe but less sweet
- Full color change (red/yellow/orange) means maximum sweetness — takes 2-3 weeks after full size
- Fruit feels firm and heavy, skin is glossy
How: Cut stems with pruners or sharp knife — don't pull, which can damage the plant. Picking regularly encourages more fruit production.
Storage: Refrigerate in a bag for 1-2 weeks. Freeze by slicing and spreading on a sheet pan, then bagging.
Common pests and problems
Aphids
Signs: Curling new growth, sticky honeydew, stunted plants
Control: Strong water spray, insecticidal soap, neem oil. Plant sweet alyssum nearby to attract beneficial insects.
Pepper Hornworm
Signs: Large caterpillars, defoliation
Control: Hand-pick. Apply Bt. Very similar to tomato hornworm.
Blossom Drop
Signs: Flowers fall off without setting fruit
Control: Not a pest — caused by temps above 90°F or below 55°F, or low humidity. Shade cloth helps in heat. Flowers return when temps moderate.
Sunscald
Signs: White/tan papery patches on fruit facing the sun
Control: Don't over-prune foliage — leaves shade the fruit. Use shade cloth in extreme heat. Harvest promptly when ripe.
About this field guide
A local-first garden agent and neighborhood commons planner for food, water, tools, repair, clean energy, and resilient communication. Your profile and garden history stay on this device.