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Holly's Homestead — Nightshade

Capsicum

Capsicum annuum · Nightshade family
DIFFICULTY Moderate
TYPE Tender perennial, grown as annual, seedling
MATURITY 70–90 days
Sun
Full sun, warm
Water
Regular, even
Soil pH
6.0–6.8
Spacing
40–50cm
Depth
as per seedling

01Support helps

Capsicum plants can topple once loaded with fruit, especially in wind. A simple stake or small cage keeps branches from snapping.

02Planting

Method
Plant seedlings once the soil and nights are reliably warm.
Soil
Rich, well-drained, high organic matter.
Timing
Plant in late spring once frost risk has fully passed.

03Growing care

  • Stake as plants grow, especially heavily fruiting varieties.
  • Water evenly — stressed plants drop flowers and fruit.
  • Feed with a potassium-rich fertiliser once fruiting starts.
  • Pick some fruit green to encourage more to set.

04Problems

  • Aphids — cluster on new growth; hose off or encourage predators.
  • Blossom end rot — irregular watering; keep moisture consistent.
  • Sunscald — exposed fruit in intense sun; keep foliage cover intact.
  • Poor fruit set — extreme heat; provide light afternoon shade in very hot zones.

05Harvest & storage

Signs
Full size and colour for the variety — green capsicums can be picked earlier, coloured ones need more time.
Method
Cut with secateurs, leaving a short stem.
Curing
None needed.
Storage
Fridge crisper, 1–2 weeks.

06Companions & rotation

Plant nearby
BasilOnionCarrot
Avoid nearby
FennelBrassicas
Rotation note
Avoid following other nightshades for 2–3 years.