California Wonder Pepper

Most peppers are surprisingly simple to grow. Seeds should be started at least 8 weeks before the last anticipated frost date. Pepper seeds prefer warm environments for germination, so placement on a heating pad will raise germination rates. Harden off your pepper plants one week prior to transplanting outdoors. Make sure to amend the soil with a good fertilizer or organic material before planting. Plant 2-3 seeds per pot and thin to 2 plants every 18-24 inches.

Peppers require consistent moisture, but do not like overwatering. Be sure to provide good drainage.

Harvest can begin as early as 60 days after planting, but fruit is sweeter closer the longer it remains on the plant (closer to 80 days). While many species of pepper can produce many peppers, California Wonder peppers produce an average of 6-8 fruit per plant.

Peppers can cross pollinate with other pepper varieties. While this will not affect the taste or quality of your fruit, seeds produced will show genetic characteristics of both parent plants. In short, be sure to separate or cover your pepper plants if you intend to save seeds for future seasons.