Growing Capsicum, also Bell peppers, Sweet peppers

Capsicum annuum : Solanaceae / the nightshade family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
S             S S S S S
T T               T T T

(Best months for growing Capsicum in Australia - sub-tropical regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 18°C and 35°C. (Show °F/in)
  • Space plants: 20 - 50 cm apart
  • Harvest in 10-12 weeks. Cut fruit off with sharp knife.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Egg plant (Aubergine), Nasturtiums, Basil, Parsley, Amaranth

Your comments and tips

07 Dec 07, Sally (Unknown climate)
do you know why my leaves are turning black and falling off my capsicum plant
Showing 521 - 521 of 521 comments

Capsicum is a small plant, not a vine. If you want to grow capsicum from a store bought plant, make sure you chose one that is high quality ie. one that tastes great - judge a tree by it's fruit. Why use seed from an average capsicum? It's so easy though. Just stick it in the ground, it'll grow. Capsicum LOVE humidity, so wait to plant until mid-late spring, it'll fruit during the summer. My question is this: My capsicum plants from last year are still in the ground, leaves looking quite happy for the moment. Should they fruit again, or should I rip them out and start again, or wait and see? I have some new plants just in case, but it would be nice to get someone who knows if they'll fruit again. Thanks!

- Annalisa

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