🌱 Pepper 'California Wonder'

Sowing window (UK)	February to March
Minimum soil temperature	18°C at seed depth
Spacing	40 cm apart
Days to germination	14 days
Days to harvest	90 days
Sowing method	Start under cover, transplant out
Frost hardy	No
Sun	full-sun
Watering	moderate
Plant family	Solanaceae

When should I sow Pepper 'California Wonder' in the UK?

In the UK, sow Pepper 'California Wonder' from February to March. It is normally started under cover and transplanted. Wait until the soil has reached 18°C at seed depth rather than going by the calendar - pepper will sit and rot in cold ground.

What soil temperature does Pepper 'California Wonder' need to germinate?

Pepper 'California Wonder' needs a minimum soil temperature of 18°C at seed depth to germinate reliably. Below that, germination is slow and patchy, and seed is more likely to rot than sprout. Measure at around 5cm down, in the morning, rather than trusting air temperature.

How deep and how far apart should I sow Pepper 'California Wonder'?

For Pepper 'California Wonder', space plants 40cm apart.

How long does Pepper 'California Wonder' take to grow?

Pepper 'California Wonder' takes roughly 90 days from sowing to harvest. Seed usually germinates in about 14 days.

Is Pepper 'California Wonder' frost hardy?

No. Pepper 'California Wonder' is not frost hardy. Do not put it outside until the risk of frost has passed in your area, and be ready to fleece it if a late frost is forecast.

Sowing data cross-checked against RHS growing guides and UK seed-merchant catalogues. Soil temperatures are the minimum for reliable germination, measured at seed depth.