Growing Anaheim Peppers in Missouri
Missouri’s warmer and longer growing season compared to Maine provides an excellent environment for growing Anaheim peppers. However, the state’s hot summers and variable spring weather still require careful planning for optimal growth. Here’s how to grow Anaheim peppers in Missouri:
1. Choosing the Right Variety
Anaheim peppers take between 70 to 80 days to mature, and Missouri’s growing season offers enough time for them to thrive. You can grow standard varieties, but consider heat-tolerant or drought-resistant types to manage Missouri’s hot summer temperatures.
2. Starting Seeds Indoors
To get a head start on the growing season, start Anaheim pepper seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date. In Missouri, this is usually around early March, allowing you to transplant seedlings outdoors in mid to late April. Use a seed-starting mix and keep the temperature around 70°F (21°C) to encourage germination.
3. Transplanting Outdoors
Anaheim peppers are frost-sensitive, so wait until the danger of frost has passed before transplanting seedlings outdoors. In most areas of Missouri, this occurs in mid-April. Choose a sunny, well-draining spot in your garden, as peppers need full sunlight to thrive. Harden off the plants by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week before transplanting.
4. Soil Preparation and Planting
Anaheim peppers prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.2 to 7.0. In Missouri, many soils are clay-heavy, so amending the soil with compost or other organic matter can improve drainage and fertility. Space the plants 18-24 inches apart in rows 24-36 inches apart to give them room to grow.
5. Caring for Anaheim Peppers
- Watering: Missouri summers can be hot and dry, so Anaheim peppers need regular watering, especially during heat waves. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall. Avoid watering the leaves to prevent fungal diseases.
- Mulching: Use mulch to help retain soil moisture and keep roots cool during hot weather.
- Fertilizing: Feed peppers with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks or use a slow-release fertilizer at planting. Peppers benefit from additional phosphorus and potassium for strong root systems and fruit development.
6. Dealing with Missouri’s Climate
Missouri’s hot and humid summers can sometimes cause heat stress for peppers, leading to flower drop or poor fruit set. To protect plants from extreme heat, consider providing some shade during the hottest parts of the day, especially during prolonged heatwaves. Using mulch can also help regulate soil temperature and retain moisture.
7. Pest and Disease Management
In Missouri, pests like aphids, flea beetles, and hornworms can target Anaheim peppers. Regularly check plants for signs of infestation, and use organic pesticides like insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed. Missouri’s humid climate also increases the risk of fungal diseases, so avoid overhead watering and space plants adequately to improve air circulation.
8. Harvesting
Anaheim peppers can be harvested when they are green, but allowing them to ripen to red gives them a sweeter flavor. In Missouri, you can typically start harvesting peppers in late July or early August. Continue harvesting until the first frost in the fall, which usually happens in late October.
By preparing for Missouri’s hot summers and keeping your Anaheim peppers well-watered, you can enjoy a successful and flavorful harvest throughout the growing season.
