Gather all the essential items to grow capsicum from seeds at home.
To grow Bell Peppers, you will need some basic things. All of these are easily available, and they will make your work very easy.1. Double Cup System
We will be using the "double cup method." You will need:2. plastic cups (such as red Solo cups).
One cup should have holes in the bottom so that water can drain. You can make small cuts in the bottom of the cup with scissors. These holes will not only allow water to drain, but will also keep the plant's roots from getting tangled.The other cup should be without holes and will sit on the bottom to catch the water.
2. Seed Starting Mix
For soil, I recommend Jiffy Seed Starting Mix. It is light, fluffy, and sterile, meaning it does not harbor insects or their eggs. It is perfect for starting seeds. Is3. Bell pepper seeds
I chose "Ozark Giant" bell pepper seeds. These yield a very good harvest and are great for indoor growing. You can choose any seeds you like, but make sure you get good-quality seeds.4. Other supplies for growing bell peppers from seeds at home.
- A small mister bottle (for sprinkling water).
- A Ziploc bag (for creating a mini greenhouse).
- A heat mat (for warming the seeds).
- A marker (for writing labels on the cups).
growing bell peppers: step-by-step process
Now that you have all the supplies, let’s start planting the seeds. It’s so easy that you will have fun!Step 1: Prepare the cups
- Place the cup with holes into the cup without holes. This is your double-cup system.
- Place the seed starting mix into the cup with holes. Gently press it down so the soil touches the holes. Use moderate pressure only.
- Pre-moisten the soil so the seeds receive moisture.
Step 2: Sow the seeds
- Sow 2-3 seeds in a cup. Sowing more seeds will make it easier to separate the plants later.
- Push the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and cover them with light soil.
- Sprinkle water with a mister bottle to maintain moisture in the soil.
Step 3: Label
Write the seed name and date on the cup with a marker. I wrote "Ozark Giant Bell Pepper." This will help you know which plant is which later.Step 4: Create a Mini Greenhouse
- Place the cup in a Ziploc bag and seal it. This bag will create a mini greenhouse, which will keep moisture and heat. This will help the seeds germinate faster.
- Place the cup on a heat mat or in a warm place. In 3-5 days, or 7-8 days at the most, your seeds will germinate.
More article; How to Grow Spinach at Home
Step 5: Post-Germination Care of Bell Peppers
- As soon as the seeds germinate, remove the Ziploc bag.
- Place the bell pepper plant under a good grow light. Window light will not be enough, so grow lights are a must.
- Keep the soil moist, but not soaked with water. Too much water can damage the roots.
A Peek at My Plants
Let me show you some pictures of some of my bell pepper plants that I started earlier.King of the North
This plant is the "King of the North" variety, great for short seasons and colder areas. It is about two months old and has grown to be as big as the ones you buy at the nursery.Ozark Giant
This is my "Ozark Giant" plant, which is even bigger. I started it about two months ago. It is growing in a 5.5 inch pot and is now starting to flower. We may see fruit soon!Learn more: How to Grow Tomatoes in Pots
Some important tips.
- Be patient: bell peppers take time to grow, but the fruits of hard work are sweet.
- Take care of the light: Grow lights will make your plants healthy and strong.
- Keep water balanced: The soil should be moist but not wet.
- Don’t forget to label; this will keep you informed about each plant.
