Bell Pepper

Bell Pepper

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Origin

Capsicum annuum, commonly known as Bell Pepper, or Sweet Pepper, is a perennial that is grown for its fruit. But not only do they provide a delicious and healthy food source, but they also add a pop of color to your space.

This plant is native to parts of North and South America as well as the Carribbean. They're the most popularly cultivated variety of domesticated capsicums.

Their fruits can come in a variety of colors, and shapes as well. The fruit will start off green and will eventually ripen to it's final color depending on the variety of pepper plant you have.

paprika capsicum pepper plant

Care

Bell pepper plants are relatively easy to grow and do best in warm, sunny conditions. They can be planted in the ground or in containers, making them a great option for those with limited garden space. When choosing a location for your bell pepper plants, make sure they have access to at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.

They also need plenty of water. Try to keep the soil evenly moist and avoid drought or soggy wet soil. When it comes to soil, bell pepper plants prefer a fertile and nutrient rich, slightly well-draining soil. Fertilize it regularly during the active growing season with a balanced fertilizer. -They are heavy feeders!

Peppers are sensitive to cold and won't tolerate frost, so it's important that you protect them from the winter chill. You can grow your pepper plants indoors during spring and summer but if you're keeping yours outdoors then you'll need to make sure that your local climate is warm enough. Ideally, don't keep your Sweet Pepper plants below temperatures of around 60 °F (+15°C).

If you live in a colder climate you need to decide if you want to keep the plant during the winter or if you want to get a new one next year. To maintain a happy pepper plant during the winter you need to provide it with a cool, but frost free, spot and some extra grow lights.

pepper plant capsicum

Other

The name "annuum" was given by botanist Linnaeus referring to it as an annual plant. But that was when it was grown in the Swedish climate. In more beneficial environments they are often grown as short lived perennials.

Note that although Sweet Peppers are safe to eat, pepper plants that's been commercially grown for decorative purposes might have been treated with chemicals not meant for consumption.