Question
We bought some seedling bell peppers and acorn squash plants a few months ago but i have not grown them beofre and I have no clue how I should grow them. I assume they need sun, but what is the stuff about "hills" I see on the tag?  And do I stake them too?  I'm getting desperate.  It's July and they're still in tiny pots.  Thanks.

Answer
Dear Paula:

Bell peppers and acorn squash should be planted in hills.  The hill is simply a mound of soil about 6 to 12 inches above the soil level and about 10 to 15 inches in diameter.  Set the plant inside the hill  and water thoroughly and continue to water 2 to 3 times per week in the absence of normal rainfall.  In addition, add a balanced fertilizer such as Miracle-Gro and continue to feed plants weekly. The plants need full sun (minimum 6 hours per day).  Staking is recommended for the acorn squash, but bell peppers likely will not require staking.  

Sincerely,

Mack Jean
AllExperts
Master Gardener
Tennessee