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Bell Pepper
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Capsicum annuum · Solanaceae

Bell Pepper

⚠️ Not safe for petsGrowth cycle of approximately 70 to 90 days until fruit harvest.30 to 61 cm
Full sunMedium, keeping the soil slightly moistMedium10 degrees Celsius

Description & origin

The Bell Pepper is a herbaceous plant from the nightshade family. It is mainly cultivated for its fruits, which can be sweet or spicy.

Size

Medium-sized plant, reaching up to 60 cm in height.

Foliage

Shiny green leaves, oval and alternate, reaching up to 10 cm in length.

Flowering

White or yellow flowers that appear in spring and summer, followed by fruit formation.

Detailed care

Light

Prefers direct sunlight but tolerates some shade during the hottest hours of the day.

Soil

Well-drained soil rich in organic matter, with a pH between 6 and 7.

Watering

Moderate watering, keeping the soil slightly moist but avoiding waterlogging.

Temperature

Ideal between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius, sensitive to temperatures below 10 degrees.

Fertilising

Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.

Repotting

Transplant when plants are 10-15 cm tall, being careful not to damage the roots.

Pruning

Light pruning to encourage growth and branching, removing dry or damaged leaves.

Propagation

Easily propagated from seeds, which should be sown in a warm environment.

Common problems

Pests

Can be affected by aphids and mites, which can damage the leaves.

Fungal diseases

Susceptible to fungi like downy mildew, especially in high humidity conditions.

Deformed fruits

Deformations in fruits can occur due to water stress or nutritional deficiencies.

Uses & curiosities

In the garden

  • Ideal for flower beds and pots on balconies
  • Attracts pollinators like bees
  • Used in home gardens

Other uses

Fruits are widely used in cooking, fresh or dried.

Did you know…

Bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants. There are various varieties with different colors and flavors.