Bell peppers, also called capsicum, are versatile in Indian cuisine; whether it is aloo Shimla mirch or bharwa Shimla mirch, they are used in every Indian kitchen. They come in different colours that have different culinary usages, like green capsicums, which are commonly used as stir fries, and yellow and red ones for salads and grilling; these are staples in Indian cuisine.
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Cultivating bell peppers is rewarding and enjoyable and requires some basic steps to consider. With good soil, proper temperature, and other criteria, if followed, will result in a simple as well as satisfying, wonderful project. So here are the six basic steps to consider when planting a bell pepper plant in the container.
Choose The Right Variety
Based on your requirements from the variety of the seeds, buy those seeds. While purchasing them, make sure that they do not have any signs of damage, disease, or pest.
Also Read: How To Grow Peas In A Container At Home
Soil Preparation And Sowing
Bell peppers thrive in well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Before planting, mix 60% cocopeat and 40% vermicompost or well-rotted manure into the soil to promote healthier growth and enhance overall fertility.
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Purchase bell pepper plants from a nursery and gently sow them into the prepared soil. Ensure the soil is moist, provide ample water, and place the plants in full sunlight.
Transplanting In The Right Container
Bell pepper seeds germinate in 7-9 days at a temperature of 16-34 degrees Celsius. When transplanting, choose a container that is 15 inches wide and 18 inches deep. Sow only two seeds per container to ensure healthy growth and equal nutrient distribution to each plant.
Watering And Fertilising
Water immediately after transplanting the seedlings. And make sure you keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. During hot weather, constant watering is the key to healthy bell pepper plants. Water the plants deeply when you feel that the top inch of soil is dry.
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Fertilise your bell pepper plant and feed them with balanced liquid fertiliser every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Also, do not fertilise with too much nitrogen fertiliser, as it can damage the plant. Instead, add calcium-rich fertilisers.
Care And Monitor
Monitor bell pepper plants for common diseases and pests such as cutworms, flea beetles, and slugs. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves promptly to prevent harm to fruit growth.
Harvest
Bell pepper plants are ready for harvesting 70-90 days after planting, depending on the variety. They can be harvested when they show signs of ripeness, such as glossy, thick, and shiny skin. For best results, let them reach full colour and ripeness on the vine before picking. Proper harvesting encourages more pepper fruits to set.
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