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Spicy exchange / 2023

When to pick peppers (harvesting guide)

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How can you tell when a pepper is ripe?

Because each pepper variety operates on its own timeline, knowing key characteristics will help you determine if your fruit is ripe.

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Color: Peppers should be at least 95% colored before you pick them Size: Refer to your seed packet to understand their typical size. Corking: Corking refers to the development of whiteish tan-ish lines on the pepper’s skin. 

Can you be more specific?

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Free pepper growing guide

Not sure where to start? I've put together a 34-page guide to help you grow an abundant harvest.

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Each pepper variety grows on its own timeline. Knowing the desired characteristics is the best way to know when to pick your peppers.

When to harvest by specific type

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Bell peppers

1. Timing: 75+ days 2. Size: Bell peppers are typically ready for picking when they reach a size of about 3.5 to 4 inches in length.  3. Color: While bell peppers can be picked at any stage of color, wait until they have achieved 95% coloring of the desired hue.

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1. Timing: 75+ days 2. Size: Banana peppers typically grow to about 6″ long.  3. Color: Banana peppers start out a greenish-yellowish color and are often eaten in this stage. If you prefer a sweeter taste, allow them to mature and turn red.

When to pick banana peppers

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When to pick jalapeños

1. Timing: 65+ days 2. Size: Jalapeños typically grow to be about 3 inches long 3. Color: Jalapeños can be harvested at different stages of color development. They are often picked when green, which is when they are crispest and brightest.

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1. Timing: 80+ days 2. Size: These peppers can grow to approximately 5 to 8 inches, depending on the specific variety and growing conditions. 3. Color: The ideal time to harvest cayenne peppers is when they turn bright red. 

When to pick cayenne peppers

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When to pick habaneros

1. Timing: 90+ days 2. Size: These peppers can grow up to 2.5 inches long. 3. Color: Unlike some other pepper varieties, habaneros are typically not consumed while they are still green. Allow them to mature to their final color for a more developed flavor.

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picking ripe peppers promotes further growth and fruit production in the plant. When you harvest ripe peppers, your plant can redirect its energy toward producing new flowers and fruit.

Does picking peppers make more grow?

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Pepper harvesting tips

1. Harvest when it’s dry 2. Most peppers can be harvested by hand 3. Larger peppers may need to be cut 4. Avoid washing before storage

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Peppers have the potential to continue ripening after they are picked, although it is generally best to allow them to fully ripen on the plant before harvesting. The ideal approach is to leave the pepper on the plant until it reaches its desired color and maturity.

Do peppers continue to ripen after picking?

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Get the free guide to growing chili peppers

The "green thumb" is a myth — with the right information, anyone can successfully grow peppers. Enjoy this free 34-page guide to help you grow an abundant harvest.

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