Yolo Wonder L Pepper

Start seeds indoors 8, 10 weeks before your last spring frost date. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting mix, keep soil warm (70, 80°F), and maintain consistent moisture until germination occurs in 7, 14 days. Provide bright light once seedlings emerge to prevent leggy growth.

Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost date and when nighttime temperatures consistently exceed 60°F. Harden off seedlings over 7, 10 days by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions. Space transplants 12 inches apart in rows 36 inches apart, planting at the same depth they were growing in containers. Water gently after transplanting to settle soil around roots.

Yolo Wonder L peppers can be harvested at any stage from green to fully red, depending on your preference. For peak sweetness and the fullest flavor development, wait until peppers turn a deep, glossy red, which takes additional time after they reach mature green size. Check plants regularly once they reach 70 days from transplanting; at this point, peppers should be large enough to harvest. Cut peppers from the plant using a sharp knife or pruning shears rather than pulling, which can damage branches. Harvesting peppers regularly encourages continued flowering and additional fruit set through the season.

Pinch off the first flowers or flower clusters that appear within 4, 6 weeks of transplanting to redirect energy into strong root and vegetative growth. Once the plant is established and begins flowering prolifically, allow flowers to develop normally. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged foliage as needed, but avoid excessive pruning once the plant is in full production.