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Peppers give 'spice' to gardens
Peppers, tropical in origin, thrive in warm temperatures. The plants should be set out in a garden once temperatures begin to stay in the 70s and 80s during the day and the 60's to 70's during overnight hours. Extremely high temperatures 90 degrees or above - may cause blooms to drop. The same can be said for nighttime temperatures below 60 degrees. Peppers also require an abundance of water. However, soggy, waterlogged soil conditions will hinder the plant's ability to grow fruit. Ideal settings for pepper plants can be found in warm, well-drained soil with a moderate fertility. While the plants are not typically sensitive to soil acidity, the best results can be found in the 6.0 to 6.8 pH range. Pepper varieties for gardeners include sweet green and yellow peppers, hot peppers and even pimento peppers. Gardeners sometimes achieve better results by using transplants, rather than direct seedlings. Transplants need to be stocky, sturdy plants which have three to five sets of true leaves. Pick plants that do not already have flowers and fruits on them for best results. Plants should be placed at least 18 inches apart in rows 24 inches apart or more. Water thoroughly after planting. Mulch can be added once plans are well established. Container gardens may provide an alternative for renters or others without a garden area. A few tips to remember include: + In container gardening, large containers, which are at least 12 inches across and 12 inches deep, work the best. + All pots must be drilled for drainage holes in the bottom. Large soil masses hold water better than small pots, and allow better root growth. + A two to three-inch layer of crushed rock in the bottom of each container should be added before filling the pots with a mixture of garden soil and potting mixture. + Containers should be placed in a sunny place, or give it as much sun as possible. Peppers varieties include: + Green (sweet) - Big Bertha, California Wonder, Yolo Wonder strains, Keystone Resistant Giant, North Star, Staddon's Select, Canape, Lady Bell, Jupiter, Bell Boy. + Yellow (sweet) - Summer Sweet 860 (green turning yellow) + Banana Type - Sweet Banana + Hot Type - Hungarian Wax, Long Red Cayenne, Large Red Cherry + Pimento - Sunnybrook, Early Pimento |
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