Bell peppers, favored by many for their mild heat and slight sweetness, are a popular variety of chili pepper. They are particularly suitable for those who do not enjoy spicy food. Bell peppers are grown in many regions, and below, we'll introduce the best time and methods for planting them.
Planting Time and Methods for Bell Peppers
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Planting Time: Bell peppers can be sown throughout the year, with the optimal temperature for seed germination being between 15 to 30 degrees Celsius. The choice of planting time can vary depending on the climate and temperature of different regions in China. Late December to January and August are suitable times for planting.
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Seedling Cultivation: During the summer, seedlings are typically cultivated in greenhouses, protected from strong sunlight and rain by shading nets. Low ridges are prepared for seedling cultivation, with a width of about 1 meter and a length of about 15 meters. The substrate is prepared in trays, such as 32-hole trays, with one acre accommodating approximately 100 seedlings. After preparing the substrate, sow one seed per hole, cover with substrate, and water thoroughly. Finally, cover the trays with straw mats to regulate temperature, prevent sunburn, and retain moisture.
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Transplanting: When seedlings have 4 to 6 true leaves, transplant them on overcast afternoons after 4 PM. Before transplanting, cover the greenhouse with shading nets, with an approximate shading rate of 50%. Each row is planted with double rows of single plants, with a spacing of 40 cm between plants and 50 cm between rows. One acre can accommodate 2600 plants. After transplanting, water thoroughly to establish roots.
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Water and Fertilizer Management: Water and fertilize when the first fruit appears, keeping the soil moist during flowering and fruiting. Watering frequency can range from every 5 to 10 days depending on temperature, preferably in the morning on sunny days and in the evening on hot days. Apply additional fertilizer when the first fruits reach the size of walnuts, and again when the second and third layers of fruits swell. Repeat fertilizer application every 15 to 20 days thereafter.
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Pruning and Thinning: Prune before flowering, remove side shoots promptly, and thin flowers and fruits during the growing period. Leave only one fruit per branch, ensuring no more than 6 fruits per plant to promote fruit quality. Remove lower withered and diseased leaves promptly to concentrate nutrients and improve light conditions. Timely pest and disease control is essential.
Above are the best time and methods for planting bell peppers. With proper management, bell peppers can yield high-quality produce consistently.
