pepper plants

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jburesh Renton, WA(Zone 8a) Jul 05, 2005

For the last two years, I have been stumped trying to grow peppers. I've changed locations in the yard and bought new plants from different locations. Still the plants stay very small, get maybe one flower and don't produce very well. The first year I planted them, they did really well. Though, I have found out the previous owner of the house, used all kinds of sprays on the yard. Any suggestions on how to get my pepper production profitable?

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Farmerdill Augusta, GA(Zone 8a) Jul 06, 2005

Peppers, especially the early cultivarsare easy to grow, Exceptions are the more exotic types from Tropical areas. Bells, Jalapenos, banana ( commercial cultivars ) are the easiest in a colder climate. They do require a relatively fertile soil and demand more moisture than a tomato. If you work your soil to at least 7 inches deep, amend it with some organic matter, fertilize relatively heavy ( either manure or 10-10 -10) and maintain a pH between 6 and 7. They should do fine Unless you have a soil bourne systemic disease like
http://plantpathology.tamu.edu/Texlab/Vegetables/peppers/ppb.htm
http://plantpathology.tamu.edu/Texlab/Vegetables/peppers/pdo.htm
http://plantpathology.tamu.edu/Texlab/Vegetables/peppers/pvd.asp
I occasionally have problems with southern blight, but that should not exist in your area..

Post #1601507
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jburesh Renton, WA(Zone 8a) Jul 06, 2005

I have added a lot of compost to the soil and have made sure that the garden gets about an inch of water per week. The Pepper Mottle Virus might be the problem as it causes stunting. I'll see if I can find out more about this virus. Thanks Farmerdill!

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critterologist Frederick, MD(Zone 6b) Jul 07, 2005

In the meantime, you might try a couple of plants in containers...

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Horseshoe Efland, NC(Zone 7a) Jul 07, 2005

jburesh...I'm not familiar with WA very much but aren't some parts of it always somewhat cool? If your weather stays relatively cool-ish that will also contribute to slow growth of peppers. They love heat!

Hoping you don't have any virus but if so then yes, try some containers as critter suggested. Those would at least be a great way to do some "comparison" grow-outs.

Post #1605608
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jburesh Renton, WA(Zone 8a) Jul 07, 2005

It is true that we have a cool spring. Now until October is the hottest time and it gets 80-90 a few days and mid 70 the rest of the time. Maybe they'll grow more now that the heat is turning up. I'm going to try to water them with some epson salt tea as well, since I read that they like magnisum.

Thanks for the advice!

Post #1605741
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Horseshoe Efland, NC(Zone 7a) Jul 07, 2005

Wishing you good fortune with your pepper plants! Do your night temps stay fairly warm, also?

Yes, the Epsom's will benefit them...it'll sure green them up nicely! And, magnesium is necessary to encourage flowering. Like chicken soup, "It couldn't hurt!"

Happy Growing!

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