🌱 How to Grow Capsicum (Bell Pepper) from Seeds

Common Names:

• Hindi: शिमला मिर्च

• Tamil: குடைமிளகாய்

• Telugu: ಬెల್ಲ್ ಮೆಣಸಿನಕಾಯಿ / కాప్సికం

• Malayalam: കാപ്സിക്കം / കൂമ്പരമുളക്

• Kannada: ಕ್ಯಾಪ್ಸಿಕಂ

• English: Capsicum / Bell Pepper

• Botanical name: Capsicum annuum

1. Choose the Right Season

• Warm-season crop

• Best time to sow:

  • January–April (Main season)

  • June–July (In cooler or moderate climates)

• Ideal temperature: 20°C to 30°C

2. Prepare the Soil

• Soil Type: Loose, well-drained, fertile

• pH Level: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)

• Mix compost, vermicompost, and neem cake before planting

• Ensure good aeration and avoid heavy water-retaining soil

3. Sow the Seeds

• Depth: Sow seeds ¼ inch (0.6 cm) deep

• Spacing:

  • Garden: Leave 18–24 inches between plants

  • Pots: Use 10–12 inch deep containers, sow 2–3 seeds, thin to 1–2 strongest seedlings

• Water gently after sowing

• Keep in warm place for sprouting

4. Watering

• Water when top 1 inch of soil feels dry

• Keep soil evenly moist — not soggy

• Avoid water stagnation to prevent root rot

5. Germination

• Seeds sprout in 7–14 days

• Transplant when seedlings are 4–6 inches tall and have 4–6 true leaves

• Handle gently to avoid disturbing roots

6. Sunlight & Temperature

• Needs 6–8 hours of full sunlight per day

• Grows best in 21°C to 30°C (70°F to 86°F)

• Too much heat can reduce fruit quality — partial shade helps in very hot regions

7. Fertilization

• Add organic compost every 2–3 weeks

• During flowering: Use low-nitrogen, high-potassium fertilizers like banana peel compost or seaweed extract

• Avoid over-fertilizing — can cause leafy growth but fewer fruits

8. Pest Control

• Common pests: Aphids, whiteflies, mites

• Spray neem oil + soap solution every 10–15 days

• Remove infested leaves and maintain plant hygiene

9. Harvesting

• First green fruits in 60–70 days

• Fully colored capsicums (Red/Yellow/Orange) in 80–90 days

• Harvest by cutting the stem — don’t pull to avoid plant damage

• Regular harvesting promotes more fruiting

10. Regrow Tip

• Save seeds from a fully ripened and dried capsicum

• Wash, dry thoroughly, and store in paper packets in a cool place

• With proper care, the plant can give continuous fruits for months

🌶️ Health Benefits of Capsicum

• Rich in Vitamin C, A, and antioxidants

• Good for eye health, immunity, and skin

• Contains capsaicin (especially in hot varieties) which helps in metabolism and fat burning

• Low in calories, high in fiber — ideal for weight watchers