Big Red
Planting Schedule
Sink your senses into Big Red’s glossy, thick-walled bell peppers—an eye-catching deep crimson that ripens with a satisfying weight and a crisp, juicy bite. The fruit forms a broad, blocky shape with crisp shoulders and a smooth, lantern-like sheen, ideal for showcasing at the peak of maturity around 75 days. Big Red shines in fresh salads and vibrant salsas, and its bold sweetness also stands up beautifully to roasting for rich, caramelized flavor.
Crop Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | Apr 6th |
| Last Frost | May 25th |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | Jul 20th |
| Harvest Begins | Oct 3rd |
| Harvest Ends | Aug 29th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 75 |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Habit | Bush |
| Support Needed | Stake |
| Planting Depth | Normal |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 80 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 60 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 50 |
| Harden Off (days) | 10 |
Today's Conditions
Outdoor planting for Big Red in Zone 2a typically begins around 2026-07-20. Wait until soil reaches at least 60°F before transplanting Big Red.
Garden Alerts
In Zone 2a, the average last spring frost is around May 25. Watch soil temperature before transplanting Big Red.
Frequently Asked Questions
My Big Red peppers have silvery speckling and leaves look dusty—could it be spider mites, and what should I do?
How often should I water Big Red peppers during the main growing phase (after they start flowering)?
When are Big Red peppers ready to harvest, and how can I tell the right stage?
Sink your senses into Big Red’s glossy, thick-walled bell peppers—an eye-catching deep crimson that ripens with a satisfying weight and a crisp, juicy bite. The fruit forms a broad, blocky shape with crisp shoulders and a smooth, lantern-like sheen, ideal for showcasing at the peak of maturity around 75 days. Big Red shines in fresh salads and vibrant salsas, and its bold sweetness also stands up beautifully to roasting for rich, caramelized flavor.
Today's Conditions
Outdoor planting for Big Red in Zone 2a typically begins around 2026-07-20. Wait until soil reaches at least 60°F before transplanting Big Red.
Garden Alerts
In Zone 2a, the average last spring frost is around May 25. Watch soil temperature before transplanting Big Red.
Sowing Tips
Transplant Conditions
Wait until soil reaches 60°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 10 days first.
Expert Note
For best fruit set, transplant only after nights are reliably warm (about 50°F+), and keep soil evenly moist while plants establish.