When to Plant California Wonder Pepper Seeds

Starting the Seed

• "California Wonder" isn't frost-tolerant and is best started indoors eight weeks before the last spring frost date in your area. This gives the plants an early start, which is ideal if you don't live in an area with a long, warm season. It also makes it easier to provide the ideal germination environment. Sow the seeds at a depth of 1/4 inch in a seed-starting tray filled up to 1/2 inch from the top with moist seed-starting mix.

Germination

• Although "California Wonder" germinates when exposed to temperatures between 60 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit, optimal germination occurs at 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Set a heat mat to this temperature and place the seed-starting tray on it. Regularly spray the seed-starting mix with water to keep it moist throughout the germination period and cover the tray with plastic wrap to promote soil-moisture retention. Expect germination in about seven days.

After Germination

• When the seeds sprout, place the tray in a sunny, south-facing window. Rotate the tray daily so the seedlings don't have to reach for the light and will grow upright. Transplanting can occur when the nighttime temperature is above 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Before planting the transplants in the garden, harden them off over a period of at least three days. Place them in a sheltered area outside throughout the morning, and gradually lengthen the duration you keep them outside.

Transplanting

• Provide "California Wonder" pepper with well-drained soil in a sunny part of the garden. Work a 2-inch layer of compost into the soil to promote drainage. Space the plants 12 inches apart and set them at the same depth they were previously growing. Water the soil regularly so it stays moist while the plants stabilize. Spread a 2-inch layer of organic mulch around the plants to promote soil-moisture retention. Three weeks after transplanting, and again at six weeks, feed the plants a balanced fertilizer at a rate of 1/4 cup per plant.