Lexi Webster
Capsicum, also known as sweet pepper or bell pepper, is a versatile and colourful addition to any dish and can be grown in Australian gardens all year round. Capsicums are easy to grow and are perfect for beginner gardeners. They are native to Central and South America and belong to the nightshade or Solanaceae family, which includes tomatoes, chillies, potatoes and eggplants. They come in a wide range of shapes, sizes and colours, with fruits that can be green, red, yellow, orange or purple. The best months to plant capsicum in Australia are between October and February, and they require full sun, well-drained soil and at least six hours of sunlight per day to thrive.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Climate | Moderate humidity, reliable rainfall, and four distinct seasons |
| Soil | Well-drained, deep, fertile, and warm |
| Sunlight | Full sun, at least 6 hours per day |
| Watering | Regular, deep watering, especially during hot, dry periods |
| Fertiliser | Balanced or organic fertiliser, liquid fish fertiliser, or manure |
| Seeds | Sow directly or in trays/containers, 5-10mm deep, 40-60cm apart |
| Seedlings | Transplant when 5-10cm tall, protect from pests and weather |
| Pests | Susceptible to snails, slugs, blossom end rot, fruit fly, and sunburn |
| Harvest | Every couple of weeks, cut the stem with a knife or secateurs |
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What You'll Learn
Capsicum plants need at least six hours of sunlight per day
When selecting a spot to grow capsicum, it is important to choose a warm, sunny location that is sheltered from the wind, which can break stems. In areas with extremely hot summers, it is recommended to use a shade cloth tent to protect the plants from sun scald and ensure successful fruit set. A 30% to 50% shade cloth can provide adequate protection while still allowing the plants to receive the sunlight they need.
Capsicum plants can be grown in containers, which offer several benefits. Containers can provide protection from frost and heavy rain, and they can also help conserve water. By placing containers under the roof eaves, you can shield the plants from harsh weather while still allowing them to receive morning sun and warmth. This technique is particularly useful in cooler climates, where it is advisable to sow capsicum seeds indoors before transplanting them outdoors when the weather warms up.
When growing capsicum in containers, ensure that the containers are large enough for the mature plants. A minimum capacity of 40 litres is recommended. Use a good-quality potting mix and keep the mix barely moist, providing regular, deep waterings throughout the growing period, especially during hot and dry spells. With the right amount of sunlight, water, and care, your capsicum plants will thrive and reward you with an abundant harvest.
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Prepare the soil with compost or manure
Preparing the soil is a crucial step in growing capsicums, as they perform best in fertile, free-draining soil. Here are the steps to prepare your soil with compost or manure:
First, select an area in your garden that receives full sun, at least 6 hours each day, and is protected from the wind, which can damage stems. Next, you want to ensure the soil is loose and well-draining. Dig it over to loosen it and ensure it drains effectively. If your soil is not naturally well-draining, consider planting your capsicums in pots or containers with a good quality potting mix, which can be more manageable for some gardeners.
Once the soil is loose, apply some compost or manure and mix it in well. You can use aged animal manure or compost to enrich the soil. It is also beneficial to boost calcium levels in the soil by adding dolomite, lime, or gypsum to prevent blossom end rot later in the season. Keep in mind that dolomite and lime will increase the pH, so if your soil pH is already optimal, use gypsum instead.
After preparing the soil, you can plant your capsicum seeds or seedlings. Capsicums like to be planted in warm soil, so time your planting accordingly. In colder areas, wait until the last frost has passed before planting. Water your seeds or seedlings with OCP eco-seaweed to help them settle in faster, then mulch around them.
Preparing your soil with compost or manure will give your capsicum plants a great start and help ensure a successful crop.
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Sow seeds directly in the garden 5mm deep and 40-60cm apart
Capsicum plants are a versatile and tasty addition to any kitchen garden and can be grown all year round in Australia. They are easy to grow from seeds, which can be sown directly into the garden or started in trays and transplanted later. If you choose to sow your seeds directly in the garden, follow these steps:
First, prepare the soil by weeding it thoroughly, digging it over to loosen it, and adding aged animal manure or compost. Keep the area free of weeds until you are ready to plant. Leave about 40 to 60 cm between each capsicum plant to allow for space and free air movement. This spacing also allows the sun to warm the soil. When you are ready to sow, place your seeds 5mm deep into the soil, with rows 60-100cm apart. Keep the soil moist, but never wet or dry, and maintain a soil temperature of 22-35°C. The seeds should germinate in 7-21 days.
Young seedlings will need protection from pests, pets, and weather until they are established. In cooler areas, it is best to sow capsicum seeds indoors in late winter or early spring and then transplant them into your garden when the weather warms up. In warmer climates, capsicum plants can be direct-seeded into the garden in late spring or early summer. Capsicum plants will be fine indoors or outside, but they need full sun and well-drained soil to thrive.
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Water regularly, especially during hot, dry periods
Watering capsicum plants regularly is crucial, especially during hot, dry periods. Here are some detailed tips to ensure your capsicum plants receive adequate hydration:
Firstly, always ensure that the soil is moist but never wet or dry. Test the moisture level by checking about 5cm below the surface. Scratch away a small amount of soil with your finger to determine if it's time to water. Watering should be done deeply in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid water loss due to evaporation during the hottest parts of the day.
It is important to maintain regular and deep waterings throughout the growing season, especially during hot and dry spells. If you have potted capsicum plants, efficient water management can be achieved by placing the pots in large dishes to catch runoff, which the plants can then absorb throughout the day. This method ensures that the plants have access to water without waterlogging the soil.
When transplanting seedlings or young plants, water them with a solution like OCP eco-seaweed to help them establish themselves and settle in faster. This will reduce transplant shock and promote healthy root development.
Additionally, if you live in an area with hot summers, consider using a shade cloth tent to protect your capsicum plants from excessive heat. This can help prevent sun scald and maintain a more stable microclimate for your plants, reducing the need for frequent watering.
By following these watering guidelines, you'll be well on your way to successfully growing capsicum plants in your Australian garden.
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Protect capsicum plants from pests, frost and strong winds
Capsicum plants are susceptible to pests, frost, and strong winds, so it is important to take preventative measures to ensure their protection. Here are some ways to protect your capsicum plants:
Pests
Capsicums can be prone to pests such as the pepper weevil, which lays its eggs inside the fruit, causing flowers, buds, and fruit to drop off. Other pests include armyworms, fruitworms, flea beetles, corn borers, and hornworms. To protect against these pests, regular inspections for signs of infestation are necessary. Remove any affected parts of the plant and dispose of them away from your garden to prevent the spread. You can also use row covers or fine netting to create a physical barrier against pests. Additionally, companion planting with pest-repelling plants can help deter pests naturally.
Frost
Capsicums are sensitive to frost, so it is essential to protect them from freezing temperatures. In cooler climes, start capsicum seeds indoors and transplant them outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. You can also use water walls or frost blankets to shield the plants from frost. If using a frost blanket, remember to remove it in the morning to prevent excessive heat build-up.
Strong Winds
Capsicums prefer a sheltered position that is not too affected by wind. To protect capsicum plants from strong winds, consider creating windbreaks by adding semi-permeable fencing or planting hedges. Staking and securing taller plants to sturdy objects can also provide support and allow the plants to move with the wind without breaking. Grouping plants together can also create a natural windbreak, providing shelter for more vulnerable varieties.
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Frequently asked questions
The best months to plant capsicum in most parts of Australia are between October and February. In cooler areas, it’s best to sow capsicum seeds indoors in late winter or early spring.
Capsicum plants need well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Prepare the soil by weeding thoroughly, digging it over to loosen, and adding aged animal manure or compost. Keep the area free of weeds until planting.
Sow seeds directly in the garden 5mm deep and 40-60cm apart, with rows 60-100cm apart. Keep the soil moist but never wet or dry. Seeds should germinate in around 7-21 days at a soil temperature of 22-35°C.
Capsicums are susceptible to blossom end rot and fruit flies. This can be prevented by boosting calcium levels in the soil. They can also suffer from sunburn, so in areas with hot summers, a shade cloth tent may be necessary.
