Capsicum and chillies
(Capsicum annuum)

Climate: Suitable for all areas except the colder parts of cool temperate areas.

Planting: Can be sown year-round in lowland parts of the tropics and warm, northern parts of humid subtropical areas. Elsewhere, sow seeds in spring when the weather has definitely turned warm. Sow seed into pots or trays and transplant the seedlings when they are 15cm tall.

Growing: Keep moist but increase watering as summer approaches. Soil must drain freely. Feed monthly with tomato food (a low-nitrogen fertiliser). Aphids and fruit fly are common pests and cutworms may destroy seedlings. Expect mildew diseases in warm, humid weather and treat promptly with fungicide. To harvest, pick capsicums when they're green or when fully ripe and coloured. Ripe fruit is the sweetest. Leave some stem attached to the fruit when you pick it. Chillies may also be picked when they are green or when they are ripe.

Source: Gardening: A Commonsense Guide (Murdoch Books)