Some of the sweet peppers, such as bell and banana peppers, will change colors when left on the plants. These mature peppers, much sweeter in flavor, are higher in vitamins A and C. However, if you let peppers mature, the plant will not produce many new fruits. So set out extra plants if you want fully ripened fruit.

Patience is a virtue in the heat of summer. Sweet peppers sometimes slow down their fruit production when temperatures climb into the 90s, but they will resume production when the days cool down. Hot peppers are more tolerant of the heat, producing steadily throughout the summer. Peppers can get sun scald, but most healthy plants have lots of foliage to help protect the fruit. In extremely hot climates, set the plants in partial shade.

Thankfully, peppers have few pests, but tender young plants can be inviting to aphids. Control them by spraying plants with SunSpray, an ultra-light horticultural oil. Just follow the label directions for proper use.

Peppers are fun plants to grow because they have so many culinary and ornamental benefits. They can sweeten or spice up any meal, and their beauty in the garden is unmatched. They also make great gifts to give to your friends and family. This summer, have fun picking a peck of peppers from your very own garden.