What causes bell peppers to fail growing?
Written by
Olivia Mitchell
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Bell peppers, however, sometimes succumb to preventable stress induced by weather. Cold soil below 60°F (15°C) inhibits root growth early; irregular watering induces blossom drop and cracked fruits; however, these factors are compounded by inadequate spacing and limited sunlight access.
Temperature Problems
- Soil under 60°F (15°C): Use black plastic mulch to warm soil
- Night temps below 55°F (13°C): Cover plants with row covers
- Heat above 90°F (32°C): Install 30% shade cloth
Watering Issues
- Blossom drop: Water 1-2 inches weekly at soil level
- Blossom end rot: Maintain consistent soil moisture
- Root rot: Improve drainage with perlite or sand
Light & Spacing
- Leggy plants: Ensure 6+ hours direct sunlight
- Poor fruiting: Space plants 18-24 inches apart
- Disease spread: Prune lower leaves for air circulation
'Temperature' demands careful study throughout growth. Chill soil and small pepper plants are ruined, 'as well as warm earth for germination and transplanting.' I find a good soil thermometer of value in all these operations. Even at this late time of year, a fall of cold weather may ruin a pepper plant; shelter must be afforded to prevent disaster.'
Water management. Deep watering helps encourage strong root systems; however, it also prevents fungus by avoiding overhead watering. I leave my plants to drink in the early morning sunshine nectar; the leaves dry out quickly, helping to prevent diseases. Soil moisture meters maintain the soil at the desired dampness without requiring you to stick your finger in it.
Pests need close monitoring as well as management. Aphids will appear on the undersides of leaves, causing distortion and a yellowish discoloration. Spider mites will produce these fine webs when it's hot and dry. Checking regularly means that infestations can be dealt with early, while they will still respond to organic sprays.
The balance of nutrients plays a role in overall plant health. For example, yellow lower leaves may indicate a nitrogen deficiency. In contrast, purplish stems may indicate a phosphorus deficiency (called the purple stem syndrome). Balanced fertilizers should be used at planting time, and after growth and flower buds start to develop, switch to high-phosphorus fertilizers.
Preventing problems begins with future crops. Plan to rotate the location of your peppers each year. Select disease-resistant varieties such as California Wonder. Be sure to sterilize any garden tools you use from plant to plant. Following these tips will help you have strong pepper plants that produce large harvests.
Read the full article: How to Grow Bell Peppers Successfully
