Organic 'Italian Sweet' Pepper

Organic 'Italian Sweet' pepper (Capsicum annuum) from the seed company Gaia, an Italian sweet pepper with sweet flesh and an elongated shape

The 'Italian Sweet' pepper is a heritage variety renowned for its long , sweet , and mild fruits, which are initially green and then turn a vibrant red when fully ripe. Their fine yet juicy flesh develops a warm sweetness, ideal for grilling, roasting, stir-fries, or fresh salads. The bushy and productive plants offer a large quantity of uniform and fragrant peppers throughout the season. Their compact growth habit and ability to thrive in small spaces make them an excellent choice for small gardens, intensive flowerbeds, or container gardening. Prized in Mediterranean cuisine, they are also very well suited to pickling or pickling.

Versatile, tasty and reliable, this pepper showcases the classic sweetness of Italian varieties.

Companion plants : Alliums, Basil, Tomato, Spinach, Oregano, Marjoram, Nasturtium, Marigold
Nefarious plants : Broad beans, Brassicaceae, Fennel

Spread/Carry : Bushy and compact
Plant height : 45 to 60 cm
Quantity per packet : 20 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Long, sweet, bright red fruit; very productive; compact variety suitable for small spaces; excellent culinary versatility

Leaf color : Medium green
Texture/flavor : Soft, sweet, juicy
Cold tolerance : Not hardy

Farming method

Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before planting time. Sow seeds about 1 cm deep in warm potting mix and maintain a temperature between 27 and 31°C for reliable germination, usually in 7 to 21 days. Harden off seedlings to 18–19°C before planting out in full sun (level 3). Water moderately (level 2). Space plants 30–45 cm apart and rows 45–60 cm apart. A compact plant requires little or no staking.

Harvesting and preservation

Harvest the first fruits quickly to encourage continuous production . Peppers can be eaten green or red, although their maximum sweetness is reached when fully ripe. Store them at 10-12°C with 95% relative humidity to maintain their firm texture.

Usage ideas

• Grilled to reveal their Italian sweetness
• In salads or as antipasti for a juicy touch
• Roasted or sautéed to enhance their flavor
• Ideal for stuffing thanks to their elongated shape
• Canned or pickled to prolong their aroma

The 'Italian Sweet' pepper combines simplicity, abundance, and flavor in a heritage variety typical of the Mediterranean. Easy to grow, deliciously sweet, and adaptable, it's a must-have for vegetable gardens seeking sweetness and productivity.