Greetings from rainy Florida! Today, I’m spilling the beans on my pepper-growing struggles. Growing peppers from seed has been my ultimate challenge, but I’ve finally cracked the code.
Why the Seed Struggle?
Pepper plants, supposedly easy to grow, have been my nemesis. I usually caved and bought transplants, but rising prices and a desire for unique varieties pushed me to master the art of growing them from seed.
The Sweet Pepper Saga:
In our house, we’re strictly sweet pepper enthusiasts. My husband’s childhood jalapeño trauma means we steer clear of anything spicy. With an urge to experiment with uncommon varieties like paprika and pimento, growing from seed became a mission.
The Seed Starting Odyssey:
Two years ago, I embarked on a quest to conquer pepper seeds. Various methods – trays, Aerogarden trials – all failed miserably. Desperation led me back to basics – the paper towel method. Placing seeds between wet paper towels in a plastic bag, I left them outside during the summer to increase heat. Success! The peppers sprouted in three weeks, sparking hope. I transfered them to small cell trays, burying them about an inch deep.
Potting Up Pepper Prodigies:
Now, with about 50% germination, I had a handful of promising seedlings per variety. Up-potting them to save space, I’ve reached a crucial juncture where each plant needs its own pot. Today, I’ll guide you through the process.
Materials:
- Organic garden mix
- Garden-tone fertilizer
- Small pots
- Painters tape and Sharpie for labeling
Potting Process:
- Mark pots for easy identification.
- Fill pots with soil and 1 tablespoon fertilizer.
- Gently separate plants, mindful of roots.
- Bury plants slightly deeper, up to the first set of seed leaves.
- Avoid burying beyond this point to prevent stem rot.
- Once they outgrow these pots, it’s garden time!
After potting up, let them recover in the shade for a couple of days to minimize transplant shock. Once they bounce back, they’ll return to their sunny spot for further growth until they’re garden-ready.