How to Container Garden

Peppers are a popular choice among gardeners, being such versatile ingredients in recipes. Follow along to learn how best to grow pepper plants in a planter.

Sun Requirements

Peppers are considered a tropical plant and will thrive off full sun for at least 6-8 hours a day. Choose a south facing location, which will be in direct view of the sun all day.

Water Requirements

Peppers like consistent moisture but do not like to be in standing water. During our 90+ degree summer days, they may need to be watered every day, especially in a container. When the first inch of soil is dry, it’s time to water! Soak the pot thoroughly and let the water drain out the bottom.

Fertilizing Requirements

Peppers are considered “heavy feeders” meaning they need consistent and heavy fertilization to fruit. Using a slow-release vegetable formulated fertilizer during the initial planting is crucial as well as feeding your plants every 2-3 weeks with a liquid concentrate vegetable fertilizer.

Container Requirements

Choosing the right container for your pepper variety is a crucial first step in the planting process. For smaller varieties of peppers, choose a container that holds 3-5 gallons of soil. For larger bell pepper varieties, choose a container that holds 5-10 gallons of soil.

Potting Mix Requirements

Choose a high quality (preferably organic) potting mix that is well-draining. Peppers are susceptible to root rot if the soil retains too much moisture for too long. Ensure your soil mix has added aeration amendments such as perlite.

Support Requirements

Peppers will get quite tall, so make sure you stake your plant at the time of planting to ensure adequate support. Use a garden stake with ties or a tomato cage.

Planting Requirements

First step is to remove the peat pot your tomato plant has been growing in. This ensures the root system has room to breath and grow to it’s fullest extent.