Pepper plants can tolerate cold temperatures down to about 32°F (0°C), which is the freezing point. Temperatures at or below this level will cause damage or death to the plants, especially if they are unprotected
. Here is a summary of how cold affects pepper plants:
- 32°F to 40°F (0°C to 4°C): Plants begin to wilt and suffer cold injury but may survive short-term exposure
- Below 32°F (0°C): Freezing temperatures cause irreversible damage and death to pepper plants unless they are protected
- 40°F to 50°F (4°C to 10°C): Growth slows significantly and flowers may drop off, reducing fruit production
- Above 50°F (10°C): Plants can grow and flower but cooler temperatures still slow development compared to ideal warmth
Pepper plants prefer warmer conditions, thriving best between 70°F and 80°F (21°C to 27°C) for bell peppers and up to 85°F (29°C) for hot peppers
. Night temperatures below about 60°F (15.5°C) can begin to stress the plants, and prolonged exposure to temperatures below 55°F (13°C) slows growth and ripening
. To protect pepper plants from cold, gardeners often use covers such as floating row covers, old sheets, or plastic tarps when temperatures drop below 60°F (15.5°C)
. In summary, pepper plants are sensitive to frost and freezing temperatures, with 32°F (0°C) being the critical low threshold. They can tolerate brief exposures to temperatures slightly above freezing but will suffer damage or death if exposed to frost or sustained cold below this point
