Milena (F1) Bell Pepper Seed

Scientific name

Capsicum annuum

Starting seed

Sow 6–8 weeks before transplanting and keep the soil at a steady 80–90°F (27–32°C); a heat mat makes this easy. When the first true leaves appear, move the seedlings into cells or soil blocks. Pots of 2" or more grow larger, stronger roots, and 4" blocks are the common standard.

Raising transplants

Grow seedlings at 70–74°F (21–23°C) by day and about 68°F (20°C) at night, and feed with a complete nutrient solution (EC 1.5–2) as needed to keep them dark green and healthy.

Planting under cover

For the first week after planting into the greenhouse or tunnel, aim for about 73–74°F (23°C) by day and 69–70°F (21°C) at night so plants root in and grow quickly. After 7–10 days, lower nights to 64–68°F (18–20°C) and hold days at 70–75°F (21–24°C).

Plant density

Set about 3–3½ plants per square meter (roughly 11 sq. ft.) and train each to two stems, for 6–7 stems per square meter. Plants can also be carried on 4 stems at the same stem density with half as many plants, though the fruit will be smaller.

Early flowers

Remove flowers up to the second or third node above the first branch, so the plant builds size before it has to carry fruit.

Trellising

Prune to 2–4 stems and wind each one up its own string, much as you would greenhouse tomatoes.

Days to maturity

Counted from transplanting.

Harvest

Pick once fruit shows at least 80% of its final ripe color.

Pests and disease

Rotate crops or start with fresh growing media to keep soilborne disease down, and release beneficial insects on a regular schedule to manage pests.

Transplants

Plan on about 950 plants per 1,000 seeds.

Packet

25 seeds.

Seeds per lb.

About 65,000 on average.