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  
                  T T  

(Best months for growing Capsicum in Australia - temperate regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings

August: Sow in pots

  • 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

13 Jun 19, Liz at Gardenate (New Zealand - temperate climate)
Some seeds, e.g. capsicum, need more warmth or protection to germinate, so we suggest that they are started in seed trays or pots in a sheltered spot i.e cool greenhouse, covered patio or similar. Once established the seedlings can be planted out. Other seeds like broad beans can be sown direct, in the place where they will grow.
26 May 19, Bec (Australia - temperate climate)
Hi, My capsicum plant did nothing over summer and early autumn. Now it is heading into winter it is covered with capsicum. How can I get the fruit to maturity? Thanks
10 May 19, David (Australia - temperate climate)
Finally had to pull out faithful old capsicum plant, getting very ratty and covered in knots , but still producing small fruit.
09 Dec 18, Robert (Australia - temperate climate)
Will a single Capsicum plant bear fruit or do I need to plant multiple plants ?
10 Dec 18, Mike (Australia - temperate climate)
Can plant single but 2-3 might be better. Might be better to plant at end of summer than now in the hot and wet season.
11 Nov 18, Scott (Australia - temperate climate)
Do you need to stake them or can they grow up a frame work?
12 Nov 18, Mike (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
Stake or use a frame - but tie them to it.
18 Oct 18, Helen (New Zealand - temperate climate)
Just bought an orange lunchbox capsicum. Should I pinch out the top leaves to promote a more bushy plant?
23 Oct 18, Mike (Australia - temperate climate)
I don't know. If you had several plants you could try it on one. Fertilise and watering well should produce a good bushy plant.
25 May 18, Sean (Australia - temperate climate)
Can capsicum be frozen for future use?
Showing 41 - 50 of 428 comments

Just planting lots of different capsicum in next few days - seedlings. Previously have had lot of bugs attack them...after all Port Macquarie is bug central so would appreciate any hints - will put them near the parsley and basil that might help? Don't like sprays or poisons. Hope you can help thanks.

- Robyn

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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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