Sweet Pepper, ‘Doe Hill’

(Capsicum annuum) A 19th-century family heirloom from the Appalachian town of the same name (population 75) in Highland County, VA, Doe Hill reminds us of a sunset orange version of a sheepnose pimento-type mini bell. Averaging about 5 lobes, it has surprisingly thick flesh for its diminutive size and just fantastic, very sweet flavor. Early and prolific, it is borne on short, bushy 2-2 ½ ’ plants that don’t require much in the way of support. This one is wonderful for crudite plates, to skewer and grill, and just begs to be stuffed with some deliciousness and served as an appetizer. One of the sweetest and earliest peppers we’ve grown.
80-90 days. TR

Packet: ~30 seeds

[split]

Growing Info

SOWING:

Indoors, 6-8 weeks before your last frost date. 

Transplant out after danger of frost (50+ nighttime temps).

Note: Protect well from the cold!

PLANTING DEPTH:

1/4″

SPACING:

12-24″ spacing in rows 24-36″ apart.

EMERGENCE:

7-14 days @ soil temp 70-85F

LIGHT:

Full sun

FERTILITY:

Moderate-Heavy. Prefer well-drained, fertile soil with ample phosphorous and calcium (too little calcium can cause blossom end rot) and a pH between 6.5-6.8. 

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

Pepper seeds germinate very slowly and poorly in cold soil. Keep soil temperatures at 80-90F while germinating, and grow plants at 70F. 

After transplanting, use a floating row cover to keep plants warmer during the day and protect them from cold nights. Remove as temperatures increase. Too much heat can cause blossom drop. 

Taller varieties benefit from staking.

Harvesting ripe fruit consistently encourages fruit production.