Banana Peppers

Banana Peppers

August 29, 2024

Introduction

You might think I’m bananas, but I’m here to tell you that you too can become the loving parent of a banana pepper patch, in NYC. Sure, finding the perfect spot to grow them might require some creativity - a fire escape or indoors with a grow light. Even the most urban of urbanites can cultivate their very own banana peppers.

The What

Banana peppers are mild, sweet peppers characterized by their elongated shape and vibrant yellow color. These peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, low in calories, and provide antioxidants and capsaicin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. Their thin walls and crisp texture make them perfect for salads, sandwiches, stir-fries, and pickling, offering a versatile addition to various dishes​.

The Why

Banana peppers are easy for begginer NYC gardeners due to their ability to handle inconsistent watering. This is particularly helpful for urban gardeners who might not have easy access to water spouts. They grow well in containers, perfect for small spaces like balconies, rooftops, and terraces. Their ability to withstand summer heat ensures a bountiful harvest even in the city. Pickling these peppers allows you to enjoy your harvest all winter long. Popular crops to grow alongside banana peppers include basil, tomatoes, and marigolds, which help enhance your garden's productivity and beauty​.

Sunlight Requirements

Banana peppers need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight. Indoors: Ideal for large pots; provide bright light or use grow lights for 12-14 hours daily.

Water Requirements

Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Indoors, monitor soil moisture frequently; outdoors, water regularly, especially during hot weather. Mulching helps retain moisture.

Temperature Tolerance

Banana peppers are a warm weather crop and prefer 70-85°F, ideally 75-80°F. Plant outdoors in May-June in NYC zone 7b. Needs warm soil to thrive and produce fruit.

Container Size

Indoors: 10-12" wide, 10" deep, 3 gallons; Outdoors: 10-12" wide, 12" deep, 3-5 gallons

Best Soil Mix

Banana peppers thrive in rich potting mix with good drainage, add organic compost from cow manure and/or mushroom compost.

How to Add Fertilizer

Apply balanced 10-10-10 early and high-phosphorus 5-10-10 during flowering. Organic options: worm castings, fish emulsion, bone meal. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks.

Growth Duration

Banana peppers are ready to harvest 60-90 days after transplanting, once fruits reach 4-6 inches long. Indoors, pepper plants can live for 1 to 3 years with proper care and plenty of light. Outdoors, they thrive for 4 to 6 months, but can be overwintered indoors before the first frost, mid-November in NYC.

How To Trim

Remove early flower buds and leggy growth to encourage bushier plants. Consistent pruning maximizes yield and ensures healthy growth. Regular harvesting can encourage more fruit production.

Growing Challenges

Wilting: Water regularly, avoid overwatering. Pests (Aphids): Spray with soapy water or release ladybugs. Yellow Leaves: Ensure good drainage, might need fertilizer. Slow Growth: Use balanced fertilizer. Diseases (Powdery Mildew): Improve air circulation, use fungicide.

Interesting Facts

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Blog
Banana Peppers

Banana Peppers

You might think I’m bananas, but I’m here to tell you that you too can become the loving parent of a banana pepper patch, in NYC. Sure, finding the perfect spot to grow them might require some creativity - a fire escape or indoors with a grow light. Even the most urban of urbanites can cultivate their very own banana peppers.

Banana Peppers

Here are the essential Banana Peppers basics you need.

Sunlight Requirements

Banana peppers need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight. Indoors: Ideal for large pots; provide bright light or use grow lights for 12-14 hours daily.

Water Requirements

Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Indoors, monitor soil moisture frequently; outdoors, water regularly, especially during hot weather. Mulching helps retain moisture.

Temperature Tolerance

Banana peppers are a warm weather crop and prefer 70-85°F, ideally 75-80°F. Plant outdoors in May-June in NYC zone 7b. Needs warm soil to thrive and produce fruit.

Container Size

Indoors: 10-12" wide, 10" deep, 3 gallons; Outdoors: 10-12" wide, 12" deep, 3-5 gallons

Best Soil Mix

Banana peppers thrive in rich potting mix with good drainage, add organic compost from cow manure and/or mushroom compost.

Fertilizing

Apply balanced 10-10-10 early and high-phosphorus 5-10-10 during flowering. Organic options: worm castings, fish emulsion, bone meal. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks.

Growth Duration

Banana peppers are ready to harvest 60-90 days after transplanting, once fruits reach 4-6 inches long. Indoors, pepper plants can live for 1 to 3 years with proper care and plenty of light. Outdoors, they thrive for 4 to 6 months, but can be overwintered indoors before the first frost, mid-November in NYC.

How To Trim

Remove early flower buds and leggy growth to encourage bushier plants. Consistent pruning maximizes yield and ensures healthy growth. Regular harvesting can encourage more fruit production.

Growing Challenges

Wilting: Water regularly, avoid overwatering. Pests (Aphids): Spray with soapy water or release ladybugs. Yellow Leaves: Ensure good drainage, might need fertilizer. Slow Growth: Use balanced fertilizer. Diseases (Powdery Mildew): Improve air circulation, use fungicide.

The Many Varieties of Banana Peppers

There are around 10-15 varieties of arugula gardeners commonly grow. One of the perks of growing arugula at home is the opportunity to experiment with different varieties that you won't find at the grocery store.

You can get a variety pack with 8 types of basil here.

Do you have any questions or requests? I'm here to help!

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