Description
25 Seeds per pack
Big Red Sweet Pepper
Days to Maturity: 60-70 days (green), 80-100 days (red)
Botanical Name: (Capsicum annum)
Sun Requirements: Full sun. (In very hot climates they may benefit from light shade.)
Introduced in the latter half of the 20th century, Big Red Sweet Pepper has quickly become a favorite among gardeners and market growers alike. Many claim this open-pollinated variety outperforms hybrids in both yield and flavor, making it a standout choice for those seeking a reliable and productive bell pepper.
This large, blocky bell pepper reaches 5 to 6 inches in length and 5 inches in width, weighing in at about 6 ounces. The thick-walled fruits start off green and mature to a rich, deep red with exceptionally sweet, juicy flesh. Sturdy plants grow 24 to 36 inches tall with a 12 to 18-inch spread, producing abundant 3- to 4-lobed peppers throughout the season.
Big Red Sweet Peppers can be enjoyed at any stage—harvest them green for a crisp, mildly sweet flavor, or allow them to fully ripen to red for an even richer, sweeter taste. Thriving in warm, sunny conditions, this variety is well-suited for home gardens and fresh market sales. Its high productivity and excellent flavor make it a staple for many growers.
Whether eaten fresh, roasted, stuffed, or sliced into salads, these peppers offer outstanding versatility. Their natural sweetness enhances stir-fries, frittatas, and even homemade pepper jelly. They can also be frozen without blanching, dehydrated for seasoning, or turned into a mild, flavorful salsa.
Rich in essential nutrients, Big Red Sweet Peppers are packed with vitamins A, C, E, and B6, along with potassium and vitamin K. These nutrients contribute to overall health, supporting the immune system, brain function, and heart health. With their crisp texture and sweet flavor, these peppers are as nutritious as they are delicious, making them a favorite in kitchens and gardens alike.
Planting Instructions for Big Red Sweet Pepper Seeds
Big Red Peppers are heat loving plants that are easy to grow, and do well in a variety of climates. Start Heirloom / Open Pollinated Pepper seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Soaking Pepper seeds for 2-8 hrs before planting helps speed germination. Plant ¼” deep in chosen containers. Germination will occur in 8-25 days at 75-90°F. Keep soil evenly moist (not soaked) for best germination. Harden off Pepper plants, then transplant to garden about 2-4 weeks after the last frost date. Plant in full sun, spacing about 12-18″ apart, in rows 24-30″ apart.
Harvest can occur when Big Red Peppers are firm and full sized, but still green, or when mature and full color for the variety (mature peppers can deteriorate quickly so keep a careful eye at harvest time). The less green the Heirloom / Open Pollinated Pepper the sweeter the flavor. It is best to use a knife or pruning clippers when harvesting to avoid damage to plant.
FAQ:
What is the historical or notable background of Big Red Sweet Pepper?
Introduced in the latter half of the 20th century, Big Red Sweet Pepper has gained popularity among home gardeners and market growers for its impressive yield and exceptional flavor. Many growers find that this open-pollinated variety outperforms hybrids in both productivity and taste.
How would you describe the flavor profile of Big Red Sweet Pepper?
Big Red Sweet Peppers offer a crisp, mildly sweet flavor when green and develop an even richer, juicier sweetness as they mature to a deep red. Their thick, juicy walls make them ideal for fresh eating and cooking.
What does Big Red Sweet Pepper look like?
This large, blocky bell pepper reaches 5 to 6 inches in length and up to 5 inches in width, weighing about 6 ounces. It starts as a green fruit and ripens to a deep red color, with thick walls and 3 to 4 lobes.
What are the growth habits and garden appeal of Big Red Sweet Pepper?
The sturdy plants grow 24 to 36 inches tall with a 12 to 18-inch spread, producing an abundant harvest throughout the season. Their vibrant red fruit and high yield make them a great addition to any garden.
What climate conditions are ideal for growing Big Red Sweet Pepper?
These peppers thrive in warm, sunny conditions and need full sun for the best yields. In very hot climates, they may benefit from light shade. Well-suited for home gardens and fresh market sales, they perform best in regions with a long, warm growing season.
What are the common culinary uses for Big Red Sweet Pepper?
Big Red Sweet Peppers are incredibly versatile—they can be eaten fresh, roasted, stuffed, or sliced into salads. They are also excellent for stir-fries, frittatas, homemade pepper jelly, and mild salsas.
How should Big Red Sweet Pepper be stored and practically used?
These peppers can be used fresh or preserved in multiple ways. They can be frozen without blanching, dehydrated for seasoning, or stored in the refrigerator for short-term use.
What vitamins or nutrients does Big Red Sweet Pepper contain?
Big Red Sweet Peppers are rich in vitamins A, C, E, and B6, along with potassium and vitamin K. These nutrients contribute to immune support, brain function, and heart health.
Does Big Red Sweet Pepper have any notable disease resistance?
While this variety is known for its high productivity and vigorous growth, it does not have specific disease resistance claims. However, proper care, crop rotation, and pest management will help ensure a healthy harvest.
Marylou (verified owner) –
Following your instructions and awaiting them to get ready to be planted.