Strategies for Growing Peppers in Extreme Heat

1. Choose Heat-Tolerant Pepper Varieties

Select cultivars that are known for thriving in high temperatures. These varieties are more resilient and continue producing despite the heat:

• Thai Hot
  • Cayenne
  • Habanero
  • Shishito
  • Numex Twilight

2. Use Shade Strategically

Use 30–50% shade cloth or floating row covers to provide protection during the hottest part of the day. This helps reduce flower drop and prevents sunscald on fruit.

3. Water Deeply and Consistently

Water deeply but less frequently to encourage deep root growth. Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to deliver water directly to the root zone, and water early in the morning or late in the evening.

4. Mulch to Conserve Moisture

Apply 2–4 inches of organic mulch like straw or shredded leaves to retain soil moisture, reduce soil temperatures, and suppress weed competition.

5. Improve Soil Health

Enrich your soil with compost and organic matter. Healthy, loamy soil improves moisture retention and provides a buffer against heat stress.

6. Monitor and Manage Nutrients

Use a balanced fertilizer early in the season and switch to one higher in phosphorus and potassium during flowering. Avoid excessive nitrogen as it promotes foliage over fruit.

7. Watch for Blossom Drop

Extreme heat can cause flowers to fall off. Mitigate this by shading, maintaining even moisture, and moderating nutrient input.

8. Support Pollination

Encourage pollination by hand-pollinating flowers using a brush or by gently shaking the plant. This is especially helpful when pollinators are less active due to heat.

9. Space Plants Appropriately

Provide 12–24 inches between plants depending on variety to ensure good airflow, which helps prevent disease and allows better cooling.

10. Harvest Regularly

Pick peppers as soon as they mature to encourage continuous fruiting. Even unripe fruits can be harvested to reduce plant stress.