I've been growing bell peppers in 5-gallon containers, but every time I pick them, they taste really bitter. I'm wondering if I might be harvesting them too early. How can I tell when they're ready to be picked? Also, do the color and ripeness have any effect on the bitterness?
2 Answers
I totally get your struggle! I have the same issue with bell peppers. I’ve found that allowing them to ripen fully can help a lot. My green peppers taste pretty bitter when picked young, but the ones that turn red are usually much sweeter. Be patient and let a few mature longer on the plant for better flavor!
It sounds like you might be picking them while they're still immature. Green bell peppers tend to be more bitter, especially if they're picked too soon. Ideally, you should wait until they change color, which is usually a sign they're ripe and will taste sweeter. Try leaving some on the plant longer and see if the bitterness decreases as they ripen.