Start seeds indoors 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost
Use a warm seed-starting mix and keep soil moist
Provide strong light for 14 to 16 hours daily
Keep seedlings warm, ideally 70 to 85°F
Harden off seedlings for 7 to 10 days before transplanting
Transplant outdoors after all frost risk has passed
Choose a sunny location with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun
Plant in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0
Space plants 18 to 24 inches apart
Water deeply and consistently, avoiding waterlogged soil
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Feed with a balanced fertilizer or one lower in nitrogen
Avoid overfertilizing with nitrogen
Support plants if needed with stakes or cages
Remove weeds regularly
Watch for pests such as aphids, flea beetles, and hornworms
Watch for diseases such as blossom end rot and fungal leaf spots
Harvest when peppers are fully red and firm
Use clean scissors or pruners to cut peppers from the plant
Continue harvesting to encourage more fruit production