Best Fertiliser for Capsicum Plants: NPK, Timing & Product Guide

Capsicum (Capsicum annuum) is a nutrient-hungry fruiting plant that produces best when fed strategically throughout its growth cycle. From germination to flowering and fruiting, the nutrient balance must shift to support healthy development. A high-quality fertiliser program is essential for big, sweet, blemish-free capsicums—especially in pots or poor soil.

Essential Nutrients for Capsicum Plants

N (Nitrogen): Supports leafy growth in the early stages
P (Phosphorus): Critical for strong root systems and flower formation
K (Potassium): Drives fruit growth, flavour, firmness, and colour
Ca (Calcium): Prevents blossom-end rot and strengthens cell walls
Mg, Fe, Mn: Micronutrients for chlorophyll, energy production, and flower set

Feeding the wrong nutrients at the wrong time can lead to:

Excess foliage but no fruit
Flower drop or poor pod development
Soft or hollow fruit with poor shelf life

Fertiliser Schedule for Capsicum Plants

Seedling Stage (Weeks 1–4)

Use: NPK 20-20-20 Liquid
Rate: 5 mL per litre of water
Frequency: Every 7–10 days
Purpose: Supports root development and strong early foliage

Pre-Flowering to Fruit Set (Weeks 5–7)

Continue: NPK 20-20-20
Alternate: Every second feed with plain water
Tip: Avoid excess nitrogen once flower buds form—too much leaf growth can delay fruiting

Fruiting Stage (Weeks 8+)

Switch to: NPK 4-18-38 + CaMg
Rate: 5–6 g per 10L of water
Frequency: Weekly for garden beds; every 5–6 days for pots
Purpose: Promotes fruit swelling, ripening, colour, and firmness. Calcium prevents blossom-end rot

Always water deeply after fertilising, and avoid letting the soil dry out—fluctuating moisture can interfere with calcium uptake.

Fertilising Capsicum in Pots: What You Need to Know

Capsicums in containers need more frequent feeding—nutrients leach faster from pots
Apply liquid fertiliser every 5–7 days once plants begin flowering
Use a high-quality potting mix with added perlite or coir for drainage and retention
Mulch the top of the pot to reduce moisture loss

Recommended Mix: Start with NPK 20-20-20 until flowering, then shift to NPK 4-18-38 + CaMg for fruiting through harvest.

Capsicum plants are capable of fruiting over several months if kept well-fed and hydrated. In warm regions, they can even act as short-lived perennials—producing into their second year.