pepper

Capsicum annuum

Growth Characteristics
This is an annual plant belonging to the Solanaceae family, native to tropical America. It prefers warm climates and requires plenty of sunlight and water during the growing season. The optimal growing temperature is between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius, and it is highly sensitive to low temperatures. It has broad leaves, erect stems, and grows to a height of 30 to 80 cm.

Propagation Methods
Propagation is primarily done by seeds. Seeds germinate within 7 to 14 days at 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, and they are transplanted after a seedling period of about 6 to 8 weeks following germination.

Cultivation Methods - Sowing and Seedling Growth: Sow seeds indoors in the spring and grow them until 4 to 6 weeks, then move them outdoors.
 - Transplanting: Transplant when there is no concern about frost. Select well-draining soil and plant at intervals of 50 cm.
 - Watering: Water regularly to prevent the soil from drying out. 4. Fertilization: Apply nitrogen-rich fertilizer during the early growth stage, and later, fertilizer rich in phosphorus and potassium.
 - Pruning: Remove small flowers that appear early to ensure fuller fruit.

Uses in the GardenIt is widely cultivated in gardens and urban farming. It can be planted directly in the ground or grown in pots on a veranda. The red fruit of the pepper is also suitable for ornamental purposes.

Important Pests and Diseases & Control Methods - Diseases:
- Anthracnose: Forms dark spots; to prevent this, create an environment with good ventilation and drainage.
- Calcium Deficiency: Symptoms include drying or rotting of the tips of flowers and fruits. Use fertilizers containing calcium (lime).
 - Pests:
- Aphids: Attack young leaves and stems. Wash with water or use insecticides within permitted limits. - Spider mites: They occur on the undersides of leaves; prevention involves preventing excessive dryness and maintaining adequate moisture.

Using appropriate pesticides for each pest is fundamental to control, and it is also advisable to try organic cultivation methods as a preventive measure.

Plant Type
Plant Family	Solanaceae
Height	60cm
Spread
Colors	white
Bloom Period	June to September
Water Needs	commonly
Exposure	Sunny
Freezing Resistance	-2°C

pimento
Capsicum annuum var. angulosum

Pepper fruitescens
Capsicum frutescens