Bell Pepper Plant Growth

Pepper plants are a common U.S. garden plant that produce several kinds of peppers, from the large and mild bell pepper to the hot chili pepper. Pepper plants generally grow well in warm climates. If you plan on raising one of the plants in a temperate climate, you should either purchase a strong variety from a local nursery or grow them indoors for the first months.

Pepper Plants

Pepper plants are a popular choice for gardens, the most common varieties being the mild green and red bell peppers and the hot chili and jalapeno peppers. Many of these peppers are native to Central America and grow naturally up through much of the United States. There many subspecies that offer different colors such as yellow and orange or various levels of spiciness.

Growing Conditions

Most peppers prefer a warm or tropical environment. Pepper varieties raised in such warm places will not adjust well to a temperate or cool climate, and if you want to grow them, you will probably need to raise them in a greenhouse or indoors while they are young. Seeds from the more tropical varieties will also produce frail plants that need careful attention before they are strong enough for colder climates. Many nurseries raise pepper plants until they are ready to be transplanted.

Uses

Pepper plants are used in a variety of foods, and are especially popular in Mexican dishes. But bell peppers can be used in many cuisines, including Italian and Asian. While bell peppers can be eaten raw and used as a vegetable garnish similar to tomatoes, the hotter varieties are used in smaller quantities to add heat and flavor to dishes.

Raising Pepper Plants in Homes

If you choose to raise a pepper plant yourself, it will need loose soil and some type of light heating during the early months of its growth. Many growers use peat to lighten the soil, which gives the roots room to breathe and absorb oxygen. The plants should be watered whenever the top soil feels dry to the touch.

Other Varieties

"Pepper plant" can also refer to the pepper spice, which can be either the common black and red varieties or similar species such as paprika. These are vines with a Mediterranean origin that are harvested for their small fruits, which are dried and ground to produce the pepper we use as a seasoning.

Tags: bell peppers, grow them, Pepper plants, raise pepper