Peppers 'Mexibel' (Peppers)

Timing is critical for peppers! Do not sow seeds outdoors. Plant 1/4 inch deep (.5 cm) in flats, peat pots or cellpacks, roughly 8 - 10 weeks before transplanting outside which may be even up to 3 weeks after your USDA Frost-free date! Soil temperatures of 80F (27C) or more are ideal. Seeds will not germinate below 55F (13C). Keep the plants indoors where they receive lots of heat and sun, since lack of light will result in leggy, unproductive transplants. Time your outdoor transplant well, and don't rush it since plants may never recover if planted in cold temperatures. To harden plants and reduce transplant shock, reduce water and keep plants at 65F (18C) for a few days (but over-hardened plants will grow slower after transplanting). When the soil has warmed and the weather has settled (about 2 to 3 weeks after average last frost), set plants outside. Plant them 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) apart, in rows 24-36 inches (60 to 90 cm), or spaced apart 15 inches (35 cm) in raised beds. Peppers are temperamental when it comes to setting fruit unless temperatures are just right. Setting nighttime temperatures below 60F or above 75F (16C to 24C) can reduce fruit set. An overabundance of nitrogen fertilizer can promote lush and vegetative growth but yield fewer fruits. Peppers tend to respond well to phosphorus fertilizer. Peppers need an even distribution of moisture for best performance, which can reduce blossom end rot, caused by a lack of calcium. Avoid planting in the same spot more than once every 4 years.