Getting started with growing pepper plants involves specific steps for planting seeds or setting out young plants (transplants) to give them the best start. Follow these guidelines based on recommended practices for successful establishment.
Starting Pepper Plants from Seed
If you're beginning your pepper-growing journey with seeds, pay close attention to planting depth and spacing:
- Planting Depth: Sow pepper seeds ½ inch deep in the soil.
- Initial Seed Placement: For reliable germination and selection of the strongest seedling, plant 4-6 pepper seeds together at each intended planting location.
- In-Row Spacing for Seeds: Space these groups of seeds 18 inches apart from each other along the row.
- Thinning Seedlings: Once the seedlings have developed two leaves, it's time to thin them out. Carefully remove all but the single strongest plant at each spot to allow it room to grow.
Planting Pepper Transplants
Using healthy young pepper plants (transplants) can give you a head start. Choosing the right transplant and ensuring proper spacing is crucial:
- Selecting the Best Transplants: Look for transplants that are stocky and dark green. Ideal plants are typically 5-8 inches tall and have 6-9 leaves, as these characteristics are associated with rapid growth.
- In-Row Spacing for Transplants: Plant individual pepper transplants 18 inches apart from one another within the row.
- Between-Row Spacing: Ensure that the rows of pepper plants are spaced 18-24 inches apart to provide adequate air circulation and growing space.
Recommended Planting Distances
Here is a summary of the spacing guidelines:
| Planting Method | In-Row Spacing | Between-Row Spacing |
|---|---|---|
| From Seed | 18 inches* | Not specified |
| Transplants | 18 inches | 18-24 inches |
- Note: Initial seed groups are spaced 18 inches apart before thinning to a single plant.
By following these planting recommendations for depth, spacing, and transplant selection, you set the stage for establishing healthy and productive pepper plants.
