How to Grow Bell Pepper Plants in a Pot

Bell peppers are a versatile and delicious addition to any recipe. Growing your own bell peppers in a pot is a great way to have fresh produce at your fingertips. Here's how to grow bell pepper plants in a pot.

Choose the Right Container

The first step to growing bell peppers in a pot is to choose the right container. You'll want a pot that's at least 18 inches in diameter and 12 inches deep. Make sure your container has good drainage, too.

Select a Sunny Location

Bell peppers need at least six hours of sunlight a day, so select a sunny location for your container. If you don't have a sunny spot, consider using a grow light to supplement the natural light.

Prepare the Soil

Use a high-quality potting soil that drains well. Add compost or aged manure to the soil to give the plants a nutrient boost. Bell peppers prefer a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8.

Plant the Bell Pepper Seedlings

Plant your bell pepper seedlings in the pot, spacing them about 12 inches apart. Gently firm the soil around the seedlings and water them well.

Water and Feed Regularly

Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water your bell pepper plants deeply about once a week, and more often during dry spells or hot weather. Feed the plants every two to three weeks with a balanced fertilizer that's high in potassium and phosphorus.

Prune and Support the Plants

As your bell pepper plants grow, pinch off the tips of the branches to encourage bushier growth. You may also need to stake or use a trellis to support the plants as they get bigger and start producing fruit.

Harvest the Bell Peppers

Depending on the variety, bell peppers will take between 60 and 90 days to produce fruit. Harvest the peppers when they're fully mature and have a glossy appearance. Cut or twist the pepper off the plant rather than pulling it.

Conclusion

With a little bit of care and attention, you can easily grow your own bell peppers in a pot. Follow these steps and soon you'll have a bountiful harvest of fresh and delicious peppers to enjoy.