Pepper plant perfection: Growing peppers on the Gulf Coast - Cultivating the Coast with Kitti Cooper, presented by Saunders Yachtworks

Growing peppers in South Alabama offers the gardener a distinctive and fulfilling gardening experience.
This unique, warm climate has an extended growing season perfect for peppers, from sweet bell peppers to scorching ones. This article examines why fall may be the best time for pepper production in South Alabama, essential care tips and their many uses.

WHY PEPPERS THRIVE IN FALL

Peppers often produce their best yields in the fall in South Alabama. The extreme summer heat can stress the plants, lowering fruit set and quality. As temperatures cool off, the end of July becomes far more favorable for pepper production. Fall's cooler evenings and warm days resemble the ideal temperatures for successful pepper production. So, if your peppers lag behind this summer, get ready; fall is their season to shine in the garden.

SUMMER PEPPER CARE

Watering

Peppers during the summer months need about 1-2 inches of water per week, but in the heat of South Alabama, they probably need more. The best way to apply water is to water deeply and less often, which will encourage deep rooting. Deep-rooted growth will help them since, come the pepper-producing season, they get top-heavy with loads of peppers. In fall, we tend to have more severe wind and weather, so strong roots and good staking is vital.

Shade and protection from excessive heat

Extreme heat results in blossom drop and sunburned fruits. Shade your plants during the hottest time of the day. Shade cloth or taller crops planted as a windbreak can protect from intense heat. If planting multiple pepper plants, corn planted side by side can make a great shade as well as a supportive stake for peppers.

Companion planting with basil

Basil is a good companion plant for pepper because of its pest-repellent and disease prevention benefits as well as offering a unique microclimate.

Basil produces aromatic compounds, including eugenol, citronellol and linalool, which may help repel pests such as aphids, whiteflies and some beetles that frequently attack pepper plants.

Basil plants can offer pepper plants a bit of shade, which helps to reduce the evaporation of soil moisture and, on those hot summer days, keeps the soil cooler in that microclimate. That would be especially true for South Alabama's hot days.

The leaves in basil contain oils with an antifungal property that can benefit and protect both plants. When leaves fall, let them compost into the ground, which helps to fight any soil-borne fungal issues, which tend to occur regularly when the weather is hot and wet.

Nutrients

Some nutrients are restricted from being absorbed by the roots of pepper plants in extremely high soil temperatures, and this often leads to lack of micronutrients, including iron and zinc, necessary for the proper growth of pepper plants.

Try it at home: Epsom salt for magnesium

Epsom salt is rich in magnesium and sulfur, which are very important for pepper plants. Dissolve 1 to 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt in a gallon of water and water your plants with it monthly. This improves the process of photosynthesis and, in general, the plant's general health, thus resulting in good plant growth and fruiting.

Mycorrhizal fungi: Peppers form symbiotic relationships with fungi, which can enhance nutrient uptake. The fungi, in turn, benefit from the carbon compounds released by the roots of the pepper plants. If you ever see mushrooms in your garden, this is a good sign of healthy soil.

Perennial plants: While peppers are often grown annually in temperate climates, they are perennial plants in their native tropical environments. With proper care, they can live and produce fruits for several years within a pot. When planted in a pot you can bring your plant inside during our few hard freezes. In doing so, you could have fresh homegrown peppers year-round.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF PEPPERS

Peppers are high in vitamins A and C and have numerous antioxidants. Red- and purple-colored peppers are found to contain the highest levels of vitamin C and beta-carotene. These molecules have beneficial effects in maintaining immune function, reducing inflammation and many other positive features.

The compound in hot peppers that makes them "hot" is called capsaicin. This molecule binds to pain receptors in the mouth and throat, producing a burning sensation. Interestingly, capsaicin has been found to have numerous health benefits, including the relief of pain and boosting of metabolism, through the same binding methods — but, when not associated with our taste buds, they aren't so spicy.

Fun fact: All peppers start out green then change colors as they mature. The name orange, yellow or red indicates the best mature time for the variety to pick for the best tasting pepper. Example: keystone red bell pepper should be picked when it's red for best flavor.

COOKING WITH LEAVES AND STEMS: MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR PEPPER PLANT

Pepper leaves and stems are not just edible but also nutritious, containing vitamins A and C, calcium and iron. They have a mild flavor making them versatile in many dishes.

Most people just throw away the pepper leaves and stems, but they can be used creatively in the kitchen. Pepper leaves can be eaten raw or cooked while the stems can be tougher but used in various ways to add flavor. This is also a great way to make use of your pepper plants while they are lacking in pepper production or prior to a hard freeze, which is typically at the end of December.

Pepper Leaf Pesto

Ingredients

• 2 cups pepper leaves, washed and stems removed
• 1/2 cup toasted nuts (pine nuts, almonds or walnuts)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. In a food processor, combine pepper leaves, toasted nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic and lemon juice. Pulse until finely chopped.
2. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Use as a sauce for pasta, spread for sandwiches or on a pepper pizza.

Pepper Leaf Omelet

Ingredients

• 4 eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon butter or oil
• 1 cup pepper leaves, washed and stems removed
• 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella or your choice)

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt and pepper until well combined.
2. Heat butter or oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Add pepper leaves and sauté until wilted.
4. Pour in egg mixture and cook until edges begin to set.
5. Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the omelet.
6. Fold the omelet in half and continue cooking until cheese is melted and eggs are fully cooked.
7. Slide onto a plate and serve hot with toast or salad.
   

WAYS TO USE PEPPER STEMS

While pepper stems are less commonly used in cooking, they can still impart flavor and be utilized in various culinary applications.

Flavor infusion for stocks and broths

Method

Add pepper stems to vegetable, chicken or beef stocks and broths. Simmer them along with other aromatics like onions, garlic and herbs.

Use

Strain the stems out before using the stock in soups, stews or sauces. The stems add a subtle peppery flavor.

Pepper Stem Vinegar

Ingredients

• Pepper stems
• White vinegar or apple cider vinegar

Method

1. Place pepper stems in a clean jar.
2. Pour vinegar over the stems, ensuring they are fully submerged.
3. Seal the jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place for 2-4 weeks.
4. Strain the vinegar and discard the stems.

Use

Use the flavored vinegar in salad dressings, marinades or as a condiment.

Growing peppers in South Alabama can be one of the easiest crops you can grow with little pest pressure. There are over 600 varieties of peppers ranging from every color of the rainbow and from sweet to spicy. With the right care and attention, having patience and proper fertilization, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of hot and sweet peppers well into the end of December. These nutritious plants not only enhance your garden with their vibrant colors but also offer numerous health benefits. Happy Gulf Coast gardening!

⭐BONUS⭐

MAKING PEPPER SPRAY PESTICIDE

Ingredients

• 10-12 hot peppers (such as jalapeños, habaneros or cayenne)
• 1 gallon of water
• 1 tablespoon of liquid dish soap (optional, for better adhesion I like to use Dr. Bronner’s pure-castile soap; bonus if it’s mint, lavender or orange.)

Equipment

• Blender or food processor
• Strainer or cheesecloth
• Spray bottle

Method

Prepare the peppers: Wear gloves to handle hot peppers to avoid irritation. Chop the peppers roughly.

Blend the peppers: Place the chopped peppers in a blender or food processor. Add a small amount of water to help with blending.

Create the pepper mixture: Blend until the peppers are finely chopped and mixed with the water.

Strain the mixture: Pour the blended mixture through a strainer or cheesecloth into a large container to remove the solid bits, leaving a concentrated pepper liquid.

Dilute the concentrate: Add the strained pepper liquid to a gallon of water. Optionally, add a tablespoon of liquid dish soap to help the spray adhere to plant surfaces.

Transfer to spray bottle: Pour the mixture into a spray bottle for easy application.

USING PEPPER SPRAY PESTICIDE

Test first: Before applying the pepper spray broadly, test it on a small section of your plants to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage or adverse effects.

Apply evenly: Spray the mixture evenly on the plants, focusing on areas where pests are commonly found, such as the undersides of leaves.

Reapply regularly: Reapply the pepper spray every few days, or after rain, as it can wash away.

Monitor plants: Keep an eye on your plants for any signs of pest activity and reapply as needed.

PESTS CONTROLLED BY PEPPER SPRAY

Pepper spray can deter a variety of pests, including:

• Aphids
• Spider mites
• Whiteflies
• Ants
• Beetles
• Caterpillars

PRECAUTIONS AND TIPS

Wear protection: Always wear gloves and avoid touching your face when handling hot peppers and the resulting spray, as it can cause irritation.

Avoid beneficial insects: Try to apply teh spray in a way that minimizes impact on beneficial insects like bees and ladybugs.

Store safely: Keep the spray out of reach of children and pets. Label the spray bottle clearly to avoid accidental use.

Photos provided courtesy of Kitti Cooper.