How to grow Sweet Pepper in the UK
Capsicum annuum
Sweet Pepper (Capsicum annuum) is a vegetable that grows well in UK gardens. Greenhouse essential outside the warmest south-coast spots. Slow to ripen to red. This guide covers when and how to sow Sweet Pepper, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Sweet Pepper
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb Sow | Mar | Apr | May Plant | Jun | Jul | Aug Harvest | Sep Harvest | Oct Harvest | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Rich soil or pots
- Soil pH
- 6.0–6.8
- Position
- Warm, sheltered, full sun or greenhouse
- Sowing depth
- 0.5 cm
- Spacing
- 45 cm apart
- Sowing
- Sow indoors Feb–Mar at 21°C — needs warmth and a long season
- Growing
- Feed high-potash once fruiting; support stems
- Harvest & upkeep
- Pick green, or leave to ripen red/yellow
- Watch for
- Aphids, red spider mite, whitefly
Companion planting for Sweet Pepper
Grows well with:
Add Sweet Pepper to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Sweet Pepper FAQs
When should I sow Sweet Pepper in the UK?
In the UK, sow Sweet Pepper in February. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
What grows well with Sweet Pepper?
Sweet Pepper grows well alongside Basil, Borage, French Marigold, Pot Marigold, Nasturtium, Oregano. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
How much sun does Sweet Pepper need?
Sweet Pepper prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When is Sweet Pepper ready to harvest?
Sweet Pepper is typically ready to harvest in August, September, October in the UK.
Is Sweet Pepper easy to grow?
Challenging. Greenhouse essential outside the warmest south-coast spots. Slow to ripen to red.