Early Sweet Pepper Varieties: Which is Best for Your Climate and Taste?
Early sweet peppers are a great addition to any garden. With so many varieties available, it can be hard to decide which one is best for your climate and taste preferences. Here we discuss some of the most popular early sweet pepper varieties, their characteristics, and how they fare in different climates.
Ajvarski, Donkey's Ear, Gatherer's Gold, Jimmy Nardello, Lipstick, Melrose, Gypsy F1 hybrid, Mareko Fana, Stocky Red Roaster, Red Wonder, Little Bells and Sirenevyi are all discussed here. Ajvarski takes forever to ripen in certain climates while Gatherer's Gold seems to be the most productive and ripen earlier than other varieties. Gypsy F1 hybrid is noted for being the earliest to turn color from yellow to orange and red. Mareko Fana has a delicious rich mildly hot flavor that dries to a beautiful reddish brown powder. Stocky Red Roaster is recommended for short season climates as it matures in about 65 days. Red Wonder is Glenn's compact early maturing pepper while Little Bells was developed by Frank Morton but no longer sold. Finally, Sirenevyi has a slightly spicy (not hot) flavor that is different from most sweet peppers.
Container growing is also suggested as a way to get an extra-early harvest before September. Zupa was mentioned as being container grown with ripe red peppers a full month before any other pepper however the flavour wasn't all that great.
Overall there are lots of options when it comes to early sweet peppers. It’s important to consider climate and taste preferences when deciding which variety to grow. Container growing may also help you achieve an earlier harvest if needed.With the right variety, you can enjoy sweet peppers all summer long.
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What are some early-ripening pepper varieties?
Ajvarski, Donkey's Ear, Gatherer's Gold, Jimmy Nardello, Lipstick, Melrose, Gypsy F1 hybrid, Mareko Fana, Stocky Red Roaster, Franks, Red Wonder, Little Bells, and Sirenevyi. Zupa is also an early variety but the flavor may be lacking.
How can I get peppers to ripen earlier?
Growing them in two gallon containers can help speed up the ripening process.
What is the earliest ripe pepper in a PNW garden?
Ethiopian heirloom called Mareko Fana is the earliest ripe pepper in a PNW garden. It can be harvested in as little as 60 days.
What is the best way to grow peppers?
Peppers prefer warm temperatures and full sun, so it's important to choose a spot that gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The soil should be well-draining and amended with organic matter such as compost or aged manure. Water regularly and fertilize every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
How do I know when my peppers are ripe?
When peppers are ripe, they will have reached their full size and color. The skin should be glossy and firm, and the pepper should feel heavy for its size. If you gently squeeze the pepper, it should give slightly. You can also taste test your peppers to determine if they are ripe.
What is the best way to store peppers?
Peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Place them in a plastic bag or container and keep them away from other fruits and vegetables, as they can absorb odors and flavors from other produce. To extend their shelf life, you can freeze them whole or cut them into slices before freezing.