Pepper Plants Are Actually Perennials, Here’s How to Keep Them Alive Longer
Pepper plants, particularly varieties like Capsicum annuum, are often treated as annuals but are actually perennials in warmer climates.
With proper care, gardeners can keep these plants alive for multiple growing seasons, allowing them to produce fruit year after year.
Indoor Care: To overwinter pepper plants indoors, water them every 3-4 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering and do not let the plants sit in water, as this can lead to root rot.
Pruning: Before bringing them indoors, prune the plants back to a few main branches. This helps reduce the plant's size and minimizes stress during dormancy. The leaves will naturally die back as the plant enters a dormant state.
Light and Temperature: Peppers require a lot of light to thrive. If you want to produce fruit indoors, consider using grow lights, as typical indoor lighting is insufficient. Ideal temperatures for growth are above 75°F, but during dormancy, cooler temperatures are acceptable.
Fertilization: Do not fertilize during dormancy. When preparing to move them back outdoors in spring, gradually increase their exposure to light and provide light fertilization.
Planting Outdoors: After the last frost, gradually reintroduce the plants to outdoor conditions. This acclimatization helps them adjust and thrive in the warmer weather, leading to a more fruitful growing season.