Seed Capsicum

Red capsicum, also known as red bell pepper or sweet pepper (Capsicum annual), is becoming popular in urban India. It can be stuffed and cooked or sliced in salads. Red and Yellow capsicum plants require more care and attention than most other vegetable crops to get proper yield. 

Common types of Capsicum: 

• Red 
• Yellow 

Best Time to Grow Capsicum 

• It can be grown year-round in controlled conditions (greenhouses, polyhouses), but the best time is September to February (winter season) is ideal. 

Planting Capsicum from Seeds 

• ​Sow seeds in seedling tray filled with cocopeat. Place one seed in each cavity. Cover seeds lightly with soil or cocopeat and sprinkle water. After 14-30 days seeds will germinate. Transplant seedlings to larger pots or garden beds when they are 4-6 inches tall and two sets of true leaves appeared.  

Ideal Growing Conditions 

• Sunlight: Needs 5-6 hours of direct sun (in very hot summers, partial shade helps). 
• Soil: Well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mixed with compost or organic manure. 
• Watering: Water every morning, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering during monsoons to avoid fungal infections.

Fertilizing & Care 

🌿 Fertilizer: 

• Use organic compost, cow dung manure, or a balanced NPK fertilizer every 2-3 weeks 
• Bone meal or neem cake can boost flowering and fruiting 

🐛 Pest & Disease Control: 

• Watch for aphids, Spider mites and whiteflies, → Use neem oil spray 
• Prevent fungal diseases by avoiding overhead watering 

Harvesting Capsicum  

• Ready in 80-100 days after planting 
• Pick when fruits are bright red (or yellow, depending on variety) 
• Use scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant