Growing Bell Peppers in Southwest Florida: Overcoming Disease

Bell peppers in SW Florida often succumb to soil-borne diseases, wilting and dying after reaching 10-11 inches. Shade covers helped temporarily, but the root cause is pathogen buildup in soil.

Disease-Resistant Strategies

• Choose resistant hybrids: Look for varieties resistant to bacterial spot, phytophthora, and viruses. Burpee and Park Seed catalogs list resistance codes.
• Soil preparation: Amend with peat, aged manure, and compost to improve drainage and microbial diversity.
• Water management: Peppers hate "wet feet." Water deeply but infrequently; allow top inch to dry between waterings.
• Full sun: Minimum 8 hours daily after hardening off.
• Mulch: Straw or shredded leaves retain moisture and cool soil.
• Fertilize wisely: 10-10-10 at transplant, first bloom, and first harvest. Avoid high nitrogen.
• Preventive spraying: Copper fungicide (e.g., Soap Shield) every 10 days if disease history.

Container Option

If soil disease persists, grow in large containers (5+ gallons) with fresh, sterile potting mix each season.