Consulta Plantas

Care of the plant Capsicum annuum or Peppers

The genus Capsicum, family Solanaceae, comprises 50 species of herbaceous plants native to the New World. Some species are: Capsicum annuum, Capsicum frutescens, Capsicum mirabile, Capsicum baccatum, Capsicum rhomboideum.

Common name: Peppers. This species is native to Mexico.

They are herbaceous plants that reach 60 cm (1.96 feet) in height. The leaves are alternate and glossy green. The white flowers are small and very little decorative. The most interesting are its fruits, small peppers that present various colors: yellow, purple, red or green.

They are used in pots for patios, terraces and balconies; Groups can also form in the garden in frost-free regions.

Capsicum annuum need a exposure in the sun and high humidity. The average annual temperature should be mild (21-25 ºC/70-77 ºF); they can't stand the cold.

They prefer soils of medium texture, with organic matter and good drainage.

Water abundantly so that the soil is always wet but never watery.

Fertilize in summer with mineral fertilizer every 10 days.

They can be attacked by fungi, whiteflies and aphids.

The plant can be kept for the following year if it's stored indoors (after losing the fruits). Prune lightly in spring and reduce watering. Finally transplant to a pot with fertilized and disinfected soil.

Images of the plant Capsicum annuum or Peppers