Peppers

Capsicum annuum

MediumFruit60-90 days from transplant
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Overview

Growing peppers in NFT systems requires careful management due to their size and root structure. Unlike leafy greens, peppers develop extensive root mats that can clog standard NFT channels; therefore, wide, flat-bottomed channels are recommended. They are heavy feeders and require structural support (trellising) to hold the plants upright as the fruit develops.

Growing Requirements

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pH Range

5.8 - 6.3

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EC Range

2 - 3 mS/cm

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TDS Range

1000 - 1500 ppm

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Temperature

22°C - 28°C

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Light Requirement

High (16 hours/day)

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Nutrient Needs

High Nitrogen during vegetative growthHigh Phosphorus and Potassium during flowering and fruitingCalcium and Magnesium supplementation to prevent blossom end rotIron and Manganese

Growth Timeline

1

Germination

7-14 days

Seeds require warmth (25-28°C) and high humidity to sprout. Start in rockwool cubes or rapid rooters before moving to the system.

2

Vegetative Growth

4-6 weeks

Rapid stem and leaf development. Roots will expand significantly; monitor NFT flow to ensure no blockages occur. Prune lower leaves to improve airflow.

3

Flowering and Fruiting

6-8 weeks

Flowers appear and pollinate (manual pollination via shaking is often needed indoors). Fruit sets and matures, changing color over time.

Common Issues & Solutions

Root Clogging

Symptoms:
  • Overflowing NFT channels
  • Nutrient solution leaks
  • Stunted growth due to lack of oxygen
Causes:
  • Dense root mats blocking the flow of nutrient film in small channels
Solutions:
  • Use wider channels (100mm+)
  • Trim roots carefully if necessary
  • Ensure adequate slope in the system

Blossom End Rot

Symptoms:
  • Dark, sunken leathery spots on the bottom of the fruit
  • Premature fruit drop
Causes:
  • Calcium deficiency
  • Inconsistent watering/nutrient flow
  • pH imbalance locking out Calcium
Solutions:
  • Supplement with Cal-Mag
  • Maintain stable pH
  • Ensure consistent nutrient flow without dry spells

Flower Drop

Symptoms:
  • Flowers falling off before fruit set
Causes:
  • Temperature stress (too hot or cold)
  • Lack of pollination
  • Excessive Nitrogen during bloom
Solutions:
  • Maintain optimal temperatures
  • Hand pollinate by gently shaking plants
  • Switch to bloom formulation nutrients

Harvesting Guide

When to Harvest

Harvest when peppers reach the desired size and color. Green peppers are unripe but edible; fully colored (red/yellow/orange) are sweeter and contain more vitamins.

How to Harvest

Use sterile shears or a sharp knife to cut the stem about 1-2 cm above the fruit cap. Do not pull the fruit by hand as it may damage the brittle branches.

Storage Tips

Store unwashed in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks. Peppers can also be frozen, dried, or pickled.

Expected Yield

High; a healthy hydroponic plant can produce 20-50 peppers depending on the variety and growing duration.

Photo Gallery

Peppers - Image 1
Peppers - Image 2
Peppers - Image 3

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