Peppers thrive in a well-drained, fertile soil that is well supplied with moisture. Use a starter fertilizer when transplanting. Because a uniform moisture supply is essential with peppers, especially during the harvest season, irrigate during dry periods. Fruits may be harvested at any size desired. When the fruits are mature, they break easily from the plant.
Less damage is done to the plants, however, if the fruits are cut rather than pulled off.
Some dishes may actually call for a specific variety of chile to be authentic. Always exercise caution when handling hot varieties, because shin, noses and eyes may become painfully irritated. Plastic or rubber gloves may be helpful when picking or handling hot peppers. People who use tobacco should wash their hands with soap and water before handling pepper plants to prevent spread of tobacco mosaic disease. Watch for accumulation of aphids on the underside of the leaves, especially near growing branch tips.