Pepper – Sweet – Emerald Giant

Pepper – ‘Sweet – Emerald Giant’

• Growing Temp 70°F – 85°F

• Days to Maturity 75-80 days

Ease of Cultivation and impressive size: The Emerald Giant pepper is a sweet pepper variety celebrated for its large, thick walls and vibrant green color. This variety is relatively easy to grow, making it suitable for gardeners at all skill levels. It thrives in warm weather and can be enjoyed fresh in salads, grilled, or roasted, adding a sweet crunch to any dish.

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. Keep the soil consistently moist, and use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Support may be needed as the heavy fruit develops.

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 develop their first true leaves and the danger of frost has passed, transplant them into the garden, spacing them 18-24 inches apart. Water thoroughly after planting and apply mulch around the base to help retain moisture.

Harvesting: To determine when Emerald Giant peppers are ready for harvest, look for large, firm peppers that are bright green and have reached their full size, typically around 75-80 days after planting. They can be harvested at this stage or allowed to ripen further for a sweeter flavor. Use scissors or garden shears to cut the peppers from the plant, taking care to avoid damaging the branches.