Lunchbox Sweet Pepper
Capsicum annuum
Approximately 25 seeds per pack.
Germination ~ 88% Mar 2025
The Lunchbox Pepper Mix is a colorful blend of mini sweet peppers (Capsicum annuum), specially bred for snacking and convenience. Though not a traditional heirloom, these open-pollinated varieties—often found in shades of red, orange, and yellow—were developed with heirloom qualities in mind, such as sweetness, thin skin, and strong flavor. Originating from breeding work that emphasizes compact growth and high yields, the mix was designed to offer a reliable, flavorful harvest ideal for gardeners and market growers alike. The lineage of these peppers traces back to traditional sweet pepper varieties of Central and South America.
Appearance & Plant Traits: Visually, the peppers are petite, typically 2–3 inches long, with smooth, glossy skin and a crisp, juicy texture. The plants themselves grow to about 2 to 3 feet tall, with sturdy stems that benefit from support due to their abundant fruit set. These peppers contain no heat, registering zero on the Scoville scale, and are known for their concentrated sweetness, making them a favorite for children and adults alike.
Culinary Uses: In the kitchen, Lunchbox Peppers shine in a wide range of uses. They're ideal raw—perfect for lunchboxes, salads, and snacking. Their sweetness also holds up well in cooked dishes; they’re excellent when sautéed, stir-fried, grilled, or roasted. Their small size makes them ideal for stuffing, and they can also be pickled or added to antipasto platters. Their bright colors and sweet flavor make them a standout addition to any meal.
Growing Tips: For cultivation, Lunchbox Peppers prefer full sun—ideally 8 to 10 hours a day—and well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 5.8 and 7.0. Start seeds indoors about 8 weeks before your last frost date, maintaining a soil temperature of 75–85°F for successful germination. Transplant outdoors after danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed. Space plants about 12 to 18 inches apart or grow them in 3–5 gallon containers. Regular watering, mulching, and feeding will encourage strong growth. Pinching early flowers can help the plants develop a fuller shape and boost overall productivity. Supporting the plants with stakes or tomato cages is recommended once fruits begin to develop.
Harvesting Guidance: Begin harvesting Lunchbox Peppers around 55 days after transplanting for immature green fruit and about 75–83 days for fully ripened, colored peppers. Peppers should be picked when they are firm, deeply colored, and reach 2–3 inches in length. Frequent harvesting encourages continued fruiting throughout the season. Freshly picked Lunchbox peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
In summary, Lunchbox Pepper Mix offers a beautiful, productive, and sweet trio of mini peppers perfect for home gardens, small-scale farms, and kitchen creativity. Their ease of growth, visual appeal, and delightful taste make them a staple for both novice and experienced growers.
