How to Grow Shishito Pepper

Start Shishito Pepper seeds indoors 10 weeks before your last frost date, then transplant outdoors 2 weeks after the last frost. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your ZIP code or city.

Shishito Pepper typically matures in about 60 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Shishito Pepper should be started indoors 10 weeks before the last frost date. This gives seedlings time to establish before being transplanted outside after frost danger has passed.

Shishito Pepper requires full sun (6-8 hours) to thrive.

Space Shishito Pepper plants 18 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

Shishito Pepper has regular (1-2 inches/week) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Yes — seed saving difficulty for Shishito Pepper is rated moderate. Let peppers ripen past the thin green stage — allow to turn red on the plant for best seed viability. Remove seeds from ripe pepper, dry flat for 1–2 weeks.

Properly dried and stored Shishito Pepper seeds remain viable for up to 2 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.

Yes — Shishito Pepper is open-pollinated, meaning seeds saved from your harvest will grow plants true to the parent variety. This makes it an excellent candidate for building a self-sustaining garden.