Fruit set usually occurs when milder conditions return. Large-fruited types tend to drop many of the flowers that form after several fruits have started to develop on a plant. Sunscald on pepper fruit is caused by exposure of the fruit to direct sunlight, especially after being shaded by foliage. Sunscald is characterized by a light-colored area that becomes slightly sunken, with a papery appearance. Keep the plants vigorous and healthy so leaves do not wilt excessively, and foliage protects the fruit from direct sunlight.
Insects occasionally are a problem on peppers in Nebraska.
Cutworms may feed on new leaves or cut the stems on small plants. Insect management guides are found in EC89-1553, Insect Management Guide for Garden Vegetables . Diseases of peppers include seed rot, damping off, virus infection and bacterial spot. Mosaic, a virus disease, can be avoided by growing mosaic resistant varieties. Other diseases of peppers and their control are listed in NebGuide G76-309, Vegetable Disease Control Guide .