Trio of Melrose Sweet Peppers on a white background.

Sweet Pepper Seeds,
Melrose

4.120 Reviews#PP152 · 15 seeds
Price
Regular price $3.25
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Description

(Capsicum annuum). Meet the legendary Chicago pepper, a true taste sensation! Brought to Melrose Park by Italian immigrants from Belsito Calabria in the early 20th century, this heirloom frying pepper turns a vibrant red and starts producing early. With its rich, sweet flavor, it’s perfect for frying or enjoying fresh. A cherished Italian treasure that’s been in high demand!

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Capsicum annuum
Life Cycle
Perennial in frost free zones; grown as an annual elsewhere.
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–14
Days to Maturity
70–80
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
18–24 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–85°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before your last expected frost. Transplant outdoors when all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in trays or pots filled with moist, sterile seed-starting mix. Maintain soil temperatures between 75–85°F for best germination. Once seedlings develop two sets of true leaves, transplant to larger containers and provide strong light until ready for outdoor planting.

How to Grow

Transplant into full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Space plants 18–24 inches apart. Keep soil evenly moist, especially during flowering and fruit set. Fertilize monthly and harvest peppers regularly to encourage more fruit. Allow some to fully ripen to red for the best flavor.

How to Save Seeds

  • Choose fully ripe, red fruits from healthy, true-to-type plants.
  • Cut open the pepper and remove seeds.
  • Spread seeds on a screen or paper towel in a warm, dry place out of direct sunlight.
  • Stir daily to ensure even drying.
  • Once completely dry, store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
  • Label with variety and year. Seeds remain viable for up to 3-5 years.

FAQ

Are Melrose peppers spicy or sweet?

Melrose peppers are completely sweet, with no heat. Their rich flavor and tender flesh make them ideal for sautéing, roasting, or eating fresh in salads and antipasto dishes.

Do Melrose peppers turn red when ripe?

Yes, Melrose peppers ripen from green to bright red. They can be harvested at either stage, but allowing them to fully ripen enhances their sweetness and depth of flavor.

Can I grow Melrose peppers in containers?

Yes, their compact size makes Melrose ideal for container growing. Use a pot at least 5 gallons in size, place it in full sun, and water regularly for healthy, productive plants.

Browse our full range of sweet pepper seeds.

Customer reviews

4.1 / 5 20 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Best frying pepper: Sweet, thin-walled, and a favorite fried with Italian sausage.

  • Loaded with peppers: Flush after flush of peppers once the heat arrives, into fall.

  • Compact plants: Bushy plants around two feet tall; happy in a 12-inch pot.

  • Heads up: Wants full sun and heat; a cool summer brings a slow, late crop.

  • Melrose Park memories: Grown for generations by Chicago-area Italian families.

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