Bell peppers are delicious straight off the vine, a great addition to any veggie tray, and tasty when roasted with potatoes and sausage or when sauteed with steak for fresh tacos. Their vibrant colors and sweet flavor make them a favorite. If you’re growing your own bell peppers, you may encounter some problems, as do even the most seasoned gardeners. This guide will help you identify common issues and provide solutions to ensure your bell peppers grow healthy and strong so you can enjoy them in your meals!
The Gretna farmers market this weekend is sure to have loads of fresh produce if you’re looking for delicious bell peppers and more!
Yellowing leaves
Bell peppers require a balanced supply of nutrients for healthy growth. Leaves may turn yellow, starting from the bottom of the plant and moving upwards, due to a lack of essential nutrients, particularly nitrogen. Too much water can also lead to root rot, which prevents the plant from absorbing nutrients properly.
Solution: Use a balanced fertilizer or compost to enrich the soil with essential nutrients; a nitrogen-rich fertilizer can help correct deficiencies. Ensure your soil has good drainage; if you're growing peppers in containers, make sure they have adequate drainage holes.
Blossom end rot
Blossom end rot is typically caused by a lack of calcium in the soil or the plant's inability to absorb it. This issue is often exacerbated by inconsistent watering. You’ll notice dark, sunken spots develop on the bottom of the peppers.
Solution: Add calcium to the soil using calcium nitrate or crushed eggshells. Maintain consistent moisture levels in the soil to help the plant absorb calcium more effectively. Mulching can help retain soil moisture.
Wilting plants
Overwatering can cause root rot, leading to wilting. Plants will appear wilted even when the soil is adequately moist. These soil-borne fungal diseases can cause wilting and yellowing of the leaves.
Solution: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. And, if you suspect fungal diseases, remove and destroy affected plants to prevent the spread. Rotate crops annually to reduce disease buildup in the soil.
Pests and insect damage
Aphids, spider mites and caterpillars are common pests that can damage bell peppers by feeding on the leaves and stems. You will notice holes in leaves, distorted growth, or visible pests on the plant.
Solution: Remove pests by hand or use a strong spray of water to dislodge them. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings that prey on common pests. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pest populations.
Poor fruit set or small peppers
This is when plants produce few or small peppers. Bell peppers are sensitive to extreme temperatures. Excessively hot or cold weather can affect fruit set and development. Poor pollination can result in fewer and smaller peppers.
Solution: Provide shade during extreme heat and protection during cold spells. Plant peppers after the last frost date and choose heat-tolerant varieties if you live in a hot climate. Encourage pollinators by planting flowers nearby and gently shaking the plants to help distribute pollen.
See you at the Gretna farmers market this weekend!
Growing your own bell peppers can be a rewarding experience, but it's essential to address any issues promptly to ensure a healthy and bountiful harvest. Remember to provide adequate nutrients, consistent watering, proper drainage and protection from pests and diseases. With a little care and attention, your bell pepper plants will thrive and produce delicious fruits you can enjoy all season long! We’ll be at the Gretna farmers market this weekend on McKenna Ave in downtown Gretna, Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon! Come shop bell peppers and much more produce, eat at a local food truck, and find various foods and crafts from our vendors.
