Mild Pepper Anaheim (Capsicum annuum) is a versatile, mild chili pepper known for its elongated shape, thick walls, and slightly sweet flavor with mild heat. These peppers are commonly used fresh, roasted, or dried for sauces, stuffing, and grilling. Anaheim peppers are easy to grow, produce high yields, and thrive in warm climates.

How to Grow Anaheim Peppers

Sowing and Germination

• Starting Indoors:

  • Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last frost.
  • Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed trays filled with well-draining soil.
  • Maintain a temperature of 75–85°F for optimal germination (a heat mat can help).
  • Germination typically occurs in 7–14 days.

• Transplanting:

  • Harden off seedlings 7–10 days before transplanting outdoors.
  • Transplant when night temperatures are consistently above 55°F and soil temperature reaches 70°F.

Plant Spacing:

• Space plants 12–18 inches apart in rows 24–36 inches apart for optimal airflow and fruit development.

Soil Requirements:

• Prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0–6.8.
• Enrich soil with compost or aged manure before planting.

Sunlight:

• Requires full sun, at least 6–8 hours daily, for maximum yield and flavor.

Growing Anaheim Peppers

Watering:

• Water consistently, about 1–2 inches per week, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
• Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Mulching:

• Apply a light layer of mulch around the plants to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Fertilizing:

• Use a balanced fertilizer (5-10-10) at planting time.
• Once flowers appear, switch to a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus, and potassium fertilizer to encourage fruiting.
• Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen, as it encourages leafy growth over fruit production.

Pest and Disease Management:

• Common Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and pepper weevils—use neem oil or insecticidal soap as needed.
• Fungal Diseases: Avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation to prevent blossom-end rot, bacterial leaf spot, and powdery mildew.
• Rotate crops yearly to prevent soil-borne diseases.

Fast Facts

• Latin Name: Capsicum annuum
• Type: Annual (in most climates), Perennial in warm regions
• USDA Zones: 3–11 (grown as an annual), 9–11 (perennial)
• Days to Germination: 7–14 days
• Days to Maturity: 75–90 days
• Plant Height: 24–36 inches
• Spacing: 12–18 inches apart
• Soil pH: 6.0–6.8
• Fruit Color: Green when unripe, turning red when fully mature
• Heat Level: 500–2,500 Scoville Heat Units (SHU)

How and When to Harvest Anaheim Peppers

• Harvest peppers when they reach 6–10 inches long and have a firm, glossy green appearance (about 75–90 days after transplanting).
• For a sweeter and slightly spicier flavor, allow peppers to ripen to red.
• Use scissors or garden shears to cut the peppers with a short stem attached to avoid damaging the plant.
• Frequent harvesting encourages continuous fruit production.

Anaheim Pepper Seed Saving

• Select fully ripe, red peppers for seed saving.
• Cut open the pepper, remove seeds, and spread them on a paper towel to dry for 1–2 weeks in a warm, dry place.
• Store dried seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 3 years.

Anaheim peppers are a mild, versatile, and high-yielding variety, perfect for roasting, stuffing, or drying. With proper care, you'll enjoy a continuous harvest of these flavorful peppers all season long! 🌱🌶