Growing Peppers
Peppers love Alabama heat, but they are not quite as carefree as okra. They want warm soil, steady moisture, good sun, and enough time to mature before cold weather returns.
When to Plant in Alabama
For Central Alabama, pepper transplants are commonly set out from about April 1 through May 10, with another opportunity for a fall crop from transplants in July. Adjust spring planting about 10 days later in North Alabama and 10 days earlier in South Alabama.
Wait until frost danger has passed and nighttime temperatures are reliably mild.
Seeds or Transplants?
Peppers are slow from seed, so transplants are usually easiest for beginners.
If starting indoors, begin well before outdoor planting time and provide warm germination temperatures and strong light.
Sun and Soil
Peppers perform best with:
- 6–8+ hours of direct sun
- Well-drained soil
- A soil pH near the slightly acidic range
- Plenty of organic matter
- Consistent moisture
Avoid planting where water stands after rain.
Spacing
Allow about 18–24 inches between plants, depending on variety.
Crowding reduces airflow and makes disease problems harder to manage.
Watering
Peppers prefer consistent moisture.
Irregular watering can contribute to:
- Blossom drop
- Small fruit
- Blossom-end rot
- Plant stress
Water deeply at the root zone and mulch once the soil has warmed.
Fertilizing
Too much nitrogen can create lush foliage with disappointing fruit production.
Use soil-test recommendations and avoid repeatedly feeding just because plants look green.
Common Problems
Watch for:
- Aphids
- Flea beetles
- Hornworms and caterpillars
- Stink bugs
- Sunscald
- Blossom-end rot
- Bacterial and fungal leaf spots
Good spacing and watering at soil level help reduce disease pressure.
Harvest
You can harvest many peppers green or allow them to ripen fully for more color and sweetness.
Use scissors or pruners rather than pulling fruit from the plant.
GardenGrowz Tip
Plant at least one sweet pepper and one hot pepper variety if you enjoy both. Alabama’s long warm season gives peppers plenty of time to keep producing.
