Pepper Biquinho Red - organic seeds

Biquinho Red Pepper – Decorative and Mildly Sweet Pepper

Also known as Petit bec (Capsicum chinense), this small red pepper stands out for its elegant drop shape. In addition to its decorative appearance, it adds a subtle, fruity, and peppery flavor to dishes without significant spiciness. Since this variety has a long growth cycle, early sowing is recommended.

Tips for Growing Biquinho Red Pepper

Sowing the Pepper

Sow indoors between February and March at a constant temperature of at least 23-24°C (73-75°F).

Create a warm, humid environment with sufficient light and regular watering. Some pepper varieties require more heat to germinate than others. If germination does not occur, slightly increase the temperature, sometimes above 25°C (77°F).

Transplant young seedlings into pots once they have 3-4 true leaves. Once the risk of frost has passed, move them to the open ground, ideally in a sheltered location. Like tomatoes, you can plant the stem deeper to promote stronger root development.

In cooler regions, such as north of the Loire, peppers grow best in a greenhouse. Outdoor cultivation is possible if the summer is warm and dry enough. In that case, choose a sunny, well-ventilated spot, such as against a wall.

Growing Pepper Plants

Pepper plants thrive in well-drained, fertile soil. Enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to provide sufficient nutrients.

Keep the soil consistently moist by watering regularly. Avoid prolonged drought, as it can affect fruit development.

In northern regions, it may be beneficial to prune the main stem once the plant bears about ten fruits. This helps focus the plant's energy on ripening existing fruits rather than producing new ones. Additionally, prune side branches bearing fruit to two leaves after the last fruit.

Some pepper plants may require support, especially if they grow tall.

During the growing season, plants benefit from organic fertilizers or foliar feeding, such as diluted nettle manure (e.g., PurMel 3).

Pepper Plant Diseases

Powdery mildew is one of the main threats to pepper cultivation.

To prevent this fungal disease, follow these measures:

• Practice crop rotation to maintain healthy and balanced soil.
• Avoid wetting the leaves when watering.
• Provide adequate spacing between plants for good air circulation.
• Spray regularly with nettle manure or horsetail decoction to strengthen plants against fungal infections.
• Optionally, use seaweed powders for extra protection.

Harvesting Biquinho Red Pepper

The harvest period runs from July to October, approximately 5-6 months after sowing. Peppers can be harvested green during growth, but they are fully ripe when they stop increasing in size. For the best flavor and color, orange and red peppers should be picked once fully mature.