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Description
| Botanical name | Capsicum annuum (Red) |
| Common name | Red bell pepper, Sweet red pepper and Lal Shimla Mirch |
| Sowing Method | Seedling transplant |
| Time to flower/fruit | 10-12 weeks |
| Lifespan | 3-5 years |
| Germination time | 7-14 days |
| Sunlight | 5-6 hours |
| Temperature | 21-32°C |
| Average fruit weight | 180-200 grams |
| Flower colour | White |
| Plant height | 3 to 4 feet |
| Harvesting time | 70-80 days |
| Fruit colour | Turns Green To Attractive Red Colour |
| Number of seeds | 5-10 |
Discover the Delight of Red Capsicum
Red Capsicum, also known as Red Bell Pepper, Sweet Red Pepper, or Lal Shimla Mirch, is a favourite in Indian kitchens. Renowned for its sweet, slightly fruity flavour with very mild heat, it adds vibrant colour and taste to any dish.
Why Grow Red Capsicum?
Versatile Garden Settings:
- Terrace Gardens
- Kitchen Gardens
- Backyard Gardens
- Balcony Gardens
All-Season Growing:
Red capsicum plants thrive in all seasons throughout the year, except during frost periods.
Ideal Growing Conditions:
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Grow Bags/Pots:
Suitable for a 12x12-inch grow bag (1 plant), a 15x12-inch grow bag (2 plants), a 15x15-inch grow bag (2 plants), or a 12-inch pot.
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Soil:
Use loose, fertile, and well-drained soil.
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Water:
Regular watering in summer; water only when the topsoil is dry during winter or rainy seasons.
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Sunlight:
Requires 5-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
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Temperature:
Optimal growing temperature is between 21-32°C, with a maximum of 35°C and a minimum of 10°C.
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Shade Net:
For temperatures above 35°C, use a shade net.
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pH Range:
Best grown in soil with a pH of 6-7.
Common Pests and Diseases:
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Pests:
Thrips, Whiteflies, Aphids, and Spider Mites.
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Control:
Use neem oil and Beauveria bassiana bio pesticide.
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Diseases:
Bacterial Wilt, Powdery Mildew, and Anthracnose.
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Control:
Use Bio Potash, Phospho Bacteria Biofertilizer, and Trichoderma Viride Anti Fungal Bio Fertilizer.
Fertilisers:
Enhance growth with vermicompost, cow dung, seaweed concentrate, bone meal, and Epsom salt.
Harvesting Tips:
Time:
Ready to harvest 70-80 days after transplanting.
Technique:
Use scissors to harvest; avoid pulling the fruits to prevent plant damage.
Nutritional Benefits:
Rich in vitamins (E, B, C) and essential minerals (iron, calcium, copper, manganese, molybdenum), red capsicum supports immunity, collagen production, vision, and blood glucose levels. It is beneficial for conditions like arthritis and Crohn's disease, helps prevent cancers, and aids wound healing.
Culinary Uses:
Grill, roast, steam, saute, or stuff red capsicum. Add it to salads, soups, or burritos for a burst of colour and flavour.
