2026 Planting Guide
Spring cropWhen to Plant Peppers in California
Complete guide to growing peppers in California with optimal planting dates, recommended varieties, soil requirements, pest management, and harvest timing. Data sourced from USDA and state extension services.
Monthly Planting Calendar
Visual overview of the peppers growing season in California. Red diamond markers indicate frost date boundaries.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
65°F (18°C) minimum
Growing Period
60-90 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
February 15
Wait until after this date
First Fall Frost
December 1
Harvest before this date
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing peppers in California.
January - February
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
March - May
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
June
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
July - November
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
December
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
Best Peppers Varieties for California
These varieties have proven performance in California's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | California Wonder | California climate |
| 2 | Anaheim | California climate |
| 3 | Jalapeno | California climate |
| 4 | Habanero | California climate |
| 5 | Serrano | California climate |
Growing Tips for California
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced California farmers.
Central Valley and southern CA are primary regions
Drip irrigation + plastic mulch standard
Pepper weevil — use pheromone traps
Pest & Disease Watch
Monitor for these threats throughout the growing season. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is recommended.
Aphids
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Pepper weevil
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Hornworms
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Whiteflies
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Bacterial leaf spot
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Companion Planting
These plants grow well alongside peppers, improving pest control, pollination, and nutrient availability.
Frost Dates
Last Spring Frost
February 15
Wait until after this date before planting frost-sensitive crops outdoors.
First Fall Frost
December 1
Plan to complete harvest of warm-season crops before this date arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant peppers in California?
The optimal planting window for peppers in California is March 15 to May 15. Soil temperature should reach at least 65°F (18°C) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 60-90 days.
What varieties of peppers grow best in California?
The best varieties for California include California Wonder, Anaheim, Jalapeno, Habanero, Serrano. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest peppers in California?
The harvest window for peppers in California is typically July 15 to November 15. The crop takes 60-90 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from USDA NASS Crop Planting Dates, California Cooperative Extension Service, and NOAA frost date records. Last updated: March 2026.
Planting dates are averages and may vary by county, elevation, and local microclimate. Always consult your local extension office for the most precise recommendations.