Muscato Pepper

Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last spring frost. Peppers germinate best in warm conditions around 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit. Sow seeds at the appropriate depth and maintain consistent moisture until germination occurs, which typically takes 10-14 days.

Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost date once soil has warmed to at least 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Harden off plants gradually over 7-10 days by exposing them to outdoor conditions in increasing increments. Space plants 12 inches apart with 36 inches between rows.

Peppers can be harvested at the dark green stage, but they develop their sweetest flavor and brightest color when allowed to fully mature to orange. Pick peppers when they feel firm and have reached their full 5 by 4-inch size. Use a clean knife or pruners to cut the stem rather than twisting the fruit, which can damage the plant. With 70-79 days to maturity from transplant, plan your first harvest around late summer, and continue picking regularly to encourage new flower formation.

Given the upright growth habit and compact mature height of 18-30 inches, remove the first flower cluster that forms to encourage branching and a bushier, more productive plant. As the plant develops, you can pinch off lower leaves and crossing stems to improve air circulation and reduce disease pressure.