Pepper – ‘Sweet – Keystone Resistant Giant’

Growing Temp 70°F – 85°F
Days to Maturity 70-80 days

Ease of Cultivation and impressive yield: The Keystone Resistant Giant pepper is a robust sweet pepper variety known for its large, blocky shape and excellent disease resistance. This pepper is relatively easy to grow, making it a favorite among home gardeners. It thrives in warm weather and can be enjoyed fresh in salads, grilled, or stuffed, offering a sweet, crunchy texture that enhances many dishes.

Direct Sowing: For direct sowing, plant the seeds outdoors after the last frost date when the soil temperature has reached at least 70°F. Sow the seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them 18-24 inches apart in rows that are 30-36 inches apart. Germination typically occurs within 14-21 days. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist, and apply mulch to help retain moisture and control weeds. As the plants grow and produce fruit, providing some support may be necessary to prevent branches from breaking under the weight of the peppers.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: To start early, sow seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost. Use seedling trays filled with quality potting mix, placing 2-3 seeds per cell. Maintain a temperature of 70-80°F for optimal germination. Once seedlings have their first true leaves and the risk of frost has passed, transplant them into the garden, spacing them 18-24 inches apart. Water thoroughly after transplanting and apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Harvesting: To determine when Keystone Resistant Giant peppers are ready for harvest, look for large, firm peppers that have developed a rich green color, typically around 70-80 days after planting. They can be harvested at this stage or allowed to ripen further on the plant for a sweeter flavor. Use scissors or garden shears to cut the peppers from the plant, ensuring minimal damage to the branches to promote continued growth.