Sweet Pepper Marconi Red 90 Fruit Seeds

Packet Content (approx.): 90 (0.5g)

Sweet Peppers belong to the genus Capsicum, but are very different from  commercial pepper which is another species. Modern varieties have been selected  for fruit size and shape, habit of growth, seasonality and resistance to certain  diseases, especially virus. Sweet peppers have very similar needs to the Tomato,  although light levels are not so critical, owing to the lower temperatures at  which Peppers should be grown to induce fruit setting.

Propagation
Sow seed March and April in open compost at high temperatures (24-28C), as this  gives uniform, speedy germination. Prick off into blocks or pots around 8-10cm  (the larger size may be desirable for delayed planting of the early heated  crop). Give plants good light and space out as required, holding temperatures at  not less than 22-24C if possible. Lower temperatures will suffice, but planting  can be delayed. Time of propagation can vary from 4-6 weeks under best  conditions, to 8 weeks or more. Note later comments about fruit setting at lower  temperatures.

Planting and Spacing
This can be at 45cm square where four shoots are left with no pruning  (supporting the crop as necessary with horizontal strings), down to 40cm where 2  shoots are taken and plants trimmed by lateral stopping to 1-3 leaves. Plants  are set out when roots are crowding and ideally when they are in flower. Root  zone temperatures should be high (22-24C) for maximum growth. For Rockwool  culture, root zone warming can be used beneath the slabs. In fact peppers prefer  higher root zone temperatures and lower air temperatures. Although responding to  good Ariel day temperatures, fruit set is better at lower temperatures. General  recommendations are 15-17C night, 18-20C day, ventilating at 23C in sunny  weather. In dull weather, temperatures should be slightly lowered.
 

Be prepared to water well and supplement feed with high-potash feed during  season.
Regular feeding is recommended.