Organic ‘Blot’ marbled pepper

Organic Marbled Pepper Blot (Capsicum baccatum) is an original and highly decorative annual variety grown for its sweet fruits with spectacular marbled patterns. The peppers mature from green to colorful marbled shades, creating a unique visual effect in the vegetable garden and on the plate. Its compact plant, reaching about 45 to 60 cm (18 to 24 in) in height, is perfectly suited to small gardens, raised beds, and large patio containers. Productive, ornamental, and flavorful, it produces crisp, mild-fleshed fruits that are excellent fresh in salads, on vegetable platters, grilled, sauted, or stuffed.

Organic Marbled Pepper Blot should be sown indoors from February to April, about 8 to 10 weeks before the last expected frost in Canada. Seeds germinate best in warmth, between 24 and 30C (75 to 86F), in a light, fertile, well-drained growing mix. After hardening off, transplant seedlings into full sun once all risk of frost has passed, in organic-rich, slightly acidic to neutral, well-drained soil. Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging. Organic mulch and balanced fertilization encourage strong production of fleshy, well-colored fruits.

In the garden, Organic Marbled Pepper Blot fits beautifully into gourmet vegetable gardens, edible landscapes, and 15 to 20 L (4 to 5 gal) containers, where its eye-catching fruits quickly attract attention. It grows well alongside tomatoes, eggplants, carrots, onions, and peas, while avoiding proximity to beans and fennel whenever possible. Its small white flowers attract bees and other pollinating insects, supporting abundant fruiting and vegetable garden biodiversity. Harvest fruits about 70 days after transplanting, once they have fully developed their marbled patterns and mild flavor.