Italian Sweet

Pepper

Zone 5b Save Garden

🌱 75d to harvest Bush

Sun-warmed and glossy, Italian Sweet Bull’s Horn peppers hang in graceful, tapering pods that feel crisp and substantial at first…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Mar 9th
Last Frost	May 4th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jun 29th
Harvest Begins	Sep 12th
Harvest Ends	Oct 5th

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Capsicum annuum (Italian Sweet) and what should I do?

Italian sweet peppers commonly suffer from aphids and then virus issues; look for clusters of sticky insects on new growth and curled or mottled leaves. Spray peppers with an insecticidal soap (or a strong water blast) and repeat every 5–7 days for 2–3 rounds, removing heavily affected plants to prevent spread. Also keep weeds down around the bed, since weeds can host aphids and other virus-carrying pests.

How often should I water Italian Sweet peppers during the main growing phase?

During the main growth phase (after transplanting until flowering and fruit set), keep soil evenly moist—about 1–2 inches of water per week depending on heat and soil drainage. Water deeply when the top 1 inch of soil is dry, and avoid letting soil swing between bone-dry and soggy because peppers can drop flowers and develop misshapen fruit.

How can I tell when Italian Sweet peppers (Capsicum annuum) are ready to harvest?

Harvest at about 75 days from transplanting when fruits reach full size and the skin is firm and glossy. Pick “sweet” peppers when they have turned their mature color (often green-to-red depending on your crop), and for best flavor harvest with a little stem attached using scissors or pruners.

Sun-warmed and glossy, Italian Sweet Bull’s Horn peppers hang in graceful, tapering pods that feel crisp and substantial at first touch. Their flavor is pleasantly sweet with a gentle, mellow snap—ideal for fresh enjoyment and for roasting until their skins turn beautifully blistered, then turning into vibrant sauces or quick pickles. A garden favorite for its dependable 75-day rhythm and its elegant, horn-like silhouette that looks as good as it tastes.

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 yields, transplant only when soil is reliably warm (60–70°F) and keep plants evenly moist to prevent blossom-end stress.