Peppadew - Sweet Piquant Pepper Growing Guide

From Seed to Harvest

Thank you for purchasing our Sweet Piquant Pepper seeds! With a little patience and proper care, you'll be rewarded with productive plants and delicious, vibrant peppers.

Seed Information

• Botanical Name: Capsicum baccatum

• Germination Time: 10 to 21 days

• Time to Harvest: Approximately 90 to 120 days after transplanting

• Plant Height: 60 to 120 cm

• Growing Season: Warm, frost-free conditions

Step 1: Starting Your Seeds

When to Sow

Start seeds indoors 8 to 10 weeks before your last expected frost, or sow directly outdoors once all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed.

Sowing Instructions

1. Fill seed trays or small pots with quality seed-starting mix.

2. Sow seeds approximately 5 mm deep.

3. Water gently until the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged.

4. Cover with a humidity dome or plastic wrap until seedlings emerge.

5. Place in a warm location between 25°C and 30°C.

Tip: A heat mat can significantly improve germination speed and success.

Step 2: Caring for Seedlings

Once seedlings emerge:

• Remove the humidity cover.

• Place seedlings in bright light or full sun.

• Water only when the surface of the soil begins to dry.

• Feed every two weeks with a diluted balanced liquid fertiliser.

When seedlings have 2 to 4 true leaves, transplant them into larger pots if they are not yet ready for the garden.

Step 3: Hardening Off

Before planting outdoors, gradually acclimatise seedlings over 7 to 10 days by placing them outside for increasing periods each day.

Step 4: Planting Out

Choose a location that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Soil Requirements

• Well-draining, fertile soil

• Rich in compost or well-rotted manure

• Ideal pH: 6.0 to 6.8

Spacing

• Plant spacing: 45 to 60 cm

• Row spacing: 60 to 75 cm

Water thoroughly after planting.

Step 5: Growing Your Plants

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist, especially during flowering and fruit development. Water deeply rather than lightly and avoid wetting the leaves where possible.

Feeding

Apply a balanced fertiliser every 2 to 3 weeks. Once flowering begins, a fertiliser slightly higher in potassium can encourage better fruit production.

Mulching

Add organic mulch around the plants to:

• Retain soil moisture

• Reduce weeds

• Keep soil temperatures stable

Support

As plants become heavily laden with fruit, staking or caging may prevent branches from breaking.

Common Problems

Slow Germination

Usually caused by temperatures that are too low. Maintain warm soil between 25°C and 30°C.

Yellow Leaves

Can indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or a nutrient deficiency.

Flowers Dropping

Often caused by temperature extremes, inconsistent watering, or plant stress.

Common Pests

Watch for:

• Aphids

• Whiteflies

• Spider mites

• Thrips

Inspect plants regularly and treat infestations early with appropriate organic or conventional controls.

Harvesting

Peppers are ready when:

• They reach full size.

• They develop a rich, glossy red colour.

• They feel firm.

Use clean secateurs or scissors to cut the fruit from the plant rather than pulling, which may damage branches.

Regular harvesting encourages continued fruit production.

Saving Seeds

To save seed:

1. Allow fully ripe peppers to mature on the plant.

2. Remove and clean the seeds.

3. Dry thoroughly for 1 to 2 weeks in a cool, shaded area.

4. Store in a labelled paper envelope or airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Properly stored seeds can remain viable for several years.

Growing Tips for Success

✓ Plant in full sun.

✓ Keep soil evenly moist but never waterlogged.

✓ Feed regularly throughout the growing season.

✓ Harvest frequently to encourage more fruit.

✓ Protect plants from frost.

We wish you a productive season and a plentiful harvest. Happy growing!