Organic 'Doe Hill' Pepper
Organic 'Doe Hill' pepper (Capsicum annuum) from the seed company Gaia, a sweet Virginia pepper with thick flesh and a sweet flavor
The 'Doe Hill' pepper, originating from the Doe Hill region of Virginia, produces round, plump fruits that turn a vibrant red when fully ripe. Their thick , juicy , and richly sweet flesh lends itself to a multitude of uses: grilling, salads, roasts, salsas, and fresh dishes where their warm aroma shines through. An open-pollinated heirloom variety, it is prized for its high productivity and abundant fruit, which maintains remarkable uniformity despite its traditional, rustic shape. The robust plants bear fruit abundantly, providing a reliable crop in warm-season gardens.
This pepper combines historical charm, deep flavor, and culinary versatility, making it a lasting favorite among gardeners.
Companion plants : Alliums, Basil, Tomato, Spinach, Oregano, Marjoram, Nasturtium, Marigold
Nefarious plants : Broad beans, Brassicaceae, Fennel
Spread/Carry : Bushy and compact
Plant height : 60 to 75 cm
Quantity per packet : 20 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Characteristics : Round red fruit, thick and juicy flesh, very sweet, heirloom variety from Virginia, high yield
Leaf color : Medium green
Texture/flavor : Very sweet, juicy, thick flesh
Cold tolerance : Not hardy
Farming method
Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before planting time, placing the seeds about 1 cm deep in warm potting mix. Maintain a temperature of 27–31°C to encourage rapid germination, usually achieved in 7 to 21 days. Harden off seedlings to 18–19°C before transplanting outdoors in full sun (level 3), with moderate watering (level 2). Space plants 30–45 cm apart and rows 45–60 cm apart to promote good air circulation and support maximum productivity.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest the first fruits quickly to encourage continuous production . Peppers can be harvested green or red depending on the intended use, but their sweetness is at its peak when fully ripe and red. Store them at 10-12°C with 95% relative humidity to maintain their firmness and freshness.
Usage ideas
• Roasted for a deep sweetness
• Stuffed thanks to their rounded shape and thick flesh
• In salsas or salads for their vibrant juiciness
• Toasted to release their sweet aroma
• In simmered dishes, they add richness and color
The 'Doe Hill' pepper combines authentic American history, exceptional sweetness, and generous yields. Created to appeal to both gardeners and cooks, it remains a valuable and essential heirloom variety in modern vegetable gardens.
