Pepper – Sweet – Sweet Banana

Pepper – ‘Sweet – Sweet Banana’

• Growing Temp 70°F – 85°F

• Days to Maturity 70-75 days

Ease of Cultivation and delicious versatility: The Sweet Banana pepper is a vibrant yellow pepper known for its sweet flavor and crisp texture. This variety is relatively easy to grow, making it a favorite among both novice and experienced gardeners. Sweet Banana peppers can be enjoyed fresh in salads, sautéed, or stuffed with a variety of fillings, providing versatility in culinary applications.

Direct Sowing: For direct sowing, plant the seeds outdoors after the last frost date when the soil temperature has warmed to at least 70°F. Sow the seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them 12-18 inches apart in rows that are 24-30 inches apart. Germination typically occurs within 14-21 days. Keep the soil consistently moist, and consider using mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. As the plants grow, ensure they receive plenty of sunlight for optimal fruit development.

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 to encourage germination. Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves and the risk of frost has passed, transplant them into the garden, spacing them 12-18 inches apart. Water thoroughly after planting and apply mulch around the base to help retain moisture.

Harvesting: To determine when Sweet Banana peppers are ready for harvest, look for peppers that are firm, fully developed, and have turned a bright yellow color, typically around 70-75 days after planting. These peppers can be harvested when yellow or allowed to ripen further on the plant for a slightly sweeter flavor. Use scissors or garden shears to cut the peppers from the plant, taking care not to damage the branches to promote continued fruit production.