Peppers
Introduction
Peppers are sold in shops in multi-colours, but this is simply different stages of ripening. All colours have their culinary uses. Unripe green peppers are great for adding flavour to sauces and soups, whilst sweeter red peppers go well in salads and spicy dishes.
Peppers are relatively easy to grow, but harder to ripen in the UK climate. A long hot summer is ideal for growing peppers, or alternatively grow peppers inside a polytunnel, greenhouse, or conservatory.
Planting
- Surface sow seed on top of moist soil, and cover with a fine layer of compost
- Seeds require warmth to germinate (propagator or windowsill)
- Space plants 50 cm apart
Harvesting
- Enjoy peppers green, or wait for them to change colour for maximum sweetness
(inside)
(outside)
(fresh)
(stored)
= jar, = freeze, 
= store
Varieties
There are many shades, sizes, and shapes of sweet peppers, but they are not classified by colour. The green, orange, and red colours seen in shops are simply different stages of ripening. Some peppers are bred to be eaten green, and others red, but all peppers will change colour as they mature.
Aside from colour, peppers come in different shapes and sizes. Colder regions in the UK may have better success with small pepper varieties of 10 cm length, whilst hotter areas may attempt varieties producing peppers of 25 cm or 10 inches long.
The easy way for a gardener to organise their growing and discover gardening ideas.
Growing
When growing sweet peppers in the UK, it is difficult to achieve the maximum levels of sweetness. Peppers require plenty of heat and sunshine to fully ripen, and this is most likely to be achieved by growing in a greenhouse, polytunnel, or conservatory.
Peppers are particularly well suited to growing in containers and pots, allowing them to be moved to the hottest parts of the greenhouse or patio. To provide the best chance of success, the seeds should be sown indoors in late winter, and grown on in a protected environment, to make the most of the long hot summer days when they arrive. The plants should only be moved to an unheated greenhouse, polytunnel, or sunny spot on a patio, once the weather has become warm during the day and night.
Grow the plants like tomatoes, watering regularly and not allowing the soil to dry out. Unlike for tomatoes, there is no need to prune or support the plants.