Starting Peppers Indoors and Transplanting to Containers in Wisconsin

Hardening Off Schedule (Start May 15)

1. Days 1–3: 2 hours outdoors, shaded, no direct sun.
2. Days 4–5: 6 hours outdoors, increasing sun exposure.
3. Days 6–7: 12 hours outdoors.
4. Day 8–10: 24 hours outdoors (after Memorial Day).

Peppers are cold-sensitive; don't rush. Wait until night temperatures are consistently above 50°F.

Container Requirements

• Pot size: 12-inch diameter, 8–12 inches deep per plant.
• Soil mix: Organic container blend with peat moss, compost, and manure.
• Sun: 6–8 hours direct sun daily.
• Drainage: Ensure pots have adequate holes.

Thinning Seedlings

With 4 stalks per peat pot, thin to the strongest one per pot before hardening off. Crowded seedlings compete and weaken.

Timeline Summary

• Seeds started April 6 (good timing).
• Harden off mid-May.
• Transplant permanently after Memorial Day.

Follow this plan for healthy, productive pepper plants.