A very nice variety with very good taste plants grow very good in cooler climates with good yields of large red pods. This early variety can really take the cold. We have seen it not start to loss leafs till late September. And its capable of having over 20 pods on it and we have had to support the plants

C.Annuum

SHU 0-500

APS BELL RED - The Classic Crimson

**Basic Info**  

Species: *Capsicum annuum*  

Origin: Atlantic Pepper Seeds (APS)  

Heat: Sweet (0-500 SHU)  

Type: Standard bell pepper variety  

**Story**  

The red bell pepper is the cornerstone of vegetable gardens worldwide, and the APS Bell Red represents the pinnacle of what this classic variety can be. While bell peppers have been cultivated for centuries, originating in Central and South America, the APS selection has been refined for modern gardeners seeking reliable performance without sacrificing flavor.  

What sets this variety apart is its consistent quality - each pod reaches a perfect 3-4 inches in length and width, with thick, meaty walls that make them ideal for stuffing, roasting, or slicing. The deep crimson color signals peak ripeness, when sweetness is at its maximum and the characteristic bell pepper flavor is fully developed. Unlike some commercial varieties that sacrifice taste for yield, the APS Bell Red maintains the rich, slightly sweet flavor that makes bell peppers so versatile.  

In culinary traditions from around the world, this pepper plays a starring role. In Spanish cuisine, it's roasted and peeled for *romesco* sauce. In Chinese stir-fries, it provides color and crunch. In American kitchens, it's a staple for salads and stuffed pepper dishes. The APS Bell Red excels in all these applications, with flesh that holds its shape when cooked while remaining tender.  

For gardeners, the variety offers reliable production even in less-than-ideal conditions. The plants are sturdy and disease-resistant, producing continuous harvests throughout the growing season. The pods transition from green to red, offering the opportunity to harvest early for a crisper texture or wait for full sweetness. This versatility makes it a favorite among home gardeners who want both quality and quantity.  

**Plant**  

Medium to large (2-3 feet), sturdy, upright growth with excellent foliage cover.  

**Pods**  

3-4 inches square, thick-walled, deep crimson when ripe.  

**Flavor**  

Rich, sweet, classic bell pepper flavor with no heat.  

**Kitchen**  

Stuffing, roasting, stir-frying, fresh in salads.  

**Growing Tips**  

- 70-85 days to maturity  

- Full sun (6-8 hours)  

- Zones 4-11 (adaptable)  

- Consistent watering for best results  

**Culinary Uses**  

- Traditional stuffed peppers  

- Roasted for sauces  

- Fresh in salads and salsas  

**Common Questions**  

Q: When should I harvest?  

A: For maximum sweetness, wait for full red color.  

Q: Can I harvest green?  

A: Yes, though they'll be less sweet.  

Q: How many per plant?  

A: Typically 8-12 large pods per healthy plant.  

Q: Storage life?  

A: 2-3 weeks refrigerated, longer if pickled.