Bell Peppers

Bryce-We love bell peppers--can't get enough of them really. So, as the weather turns warmer, these plants will begin to skyrocket.

It's an America native crop really, and adds a great flavor to many dishes. (We use them for salads or stir-fry). Bell pepper fruits come in many colors including white, yellow, orange, red, purple, and chocolate brown. Many peppers are compact growers, making them excellent for growing in tight spaces.

Peppers require a long season to mature and in most climates should be started indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost date. Transplant seedlings into the garden when soil temperatures are at least 60 degrees, about two weeks after the last frost date. Peppers grow best with air temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees, though they will tolerate more heat. If it's over 100 degrees, however, it's good to provide some shade. We use an old white sheet and stretch it over the garden so the harsh light gets diffused.

Use a sharp knife to cut off the fruits when they are either full size or fully colored. Take care not to break the brittle branches. If kept harvested, peppers will continue to produce until frost. Store peppers in the fridge and they will last about a week. Ripening continues after harvest.