Planting Guides
When to Plant Peppers in San Francisco: Complete Guide + Best Varieties for Zone 10a
San Francisco, California
USDA Zone 10a
Last Frost: Jan 15
Last updated: October 30, 2025
Learn when to plant peppers in San Francisco with specific dates for Zone 10a. Compare 8 varieties, get a complete timeline, and discover which peppers grow best in California's unique climate.
— Image © PlantReference.org 2026
Quick Answer
Plant cool-season peppers like Capsicum annuum 'Shishito' in February-April in San Francisco. Start heat-loving varieties in March-May for optimal growth.
TL;DR
San Francisco's Zone 10a climate allows year-round pepper growing with no true winter freeze. Plant cool-season varieties like Capsicum annuum 'Shishito' and Capsicum annuum 'Sweet Banana' from February through April for summer harvest. Start heat-loving varieties like Capsicum chinense 'Habanero' in March-May for fall harvest when foggy conditions clear.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start pepper seeds indoors in San Francisco?
Start pepper seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your intended transplant date. For spring planting (March-April transplants), start seeds in January-February. Use a heat mat to maintain soil temperature at 80-85°F (27-29°C) for optimal germination. Cool-season varieties like Capsicum annuum 'Shishito' can be started as early as December for February transplanting.
Can peppers grow year-round in San Francisco?
Yes, San Francisco's Zone 10a climate allows year-round pepper growing with proper variety selection and protection. Cool-tolerant varieties like Capsicum annuum 'Shishito' and Capsicum annuum 'Sweet Banana' can be grown continuously with minimal protection during winter months. Heat-loving varieties may need greenhouse protection or containers that can be moved during coldest periods.
Why aren't my peppers ripening in San Francisco's summer?
San Francisco's cool, foggy summers slow fruit ripening significantly. Thick-walled varieties like Capsicum annuum 'California Wonder' may reach full size but remain green due to insufficient heat accumulation. Create warmer microclimates using south-facing walls, black plastic mulch, or containers in the warmest part of your garden. Many varieties like Capsicum annuum 'Anaheim' are excellent eaten green.
What are the best pepper varieties for San Francisco's foggy climate?
Capsicum annuum 'Shishito', Capsicum annuum 'Sweet Banana', and Capsicum annuum 'Anaheim' perform best in San Francisco's cool, humid conditions. These varieties tolerate lower temperatures and set fruit reliably even during foggy periods. Avoid heat-loving varieties like Capsicum chinense 'Habanero' unless you can provide greenhouse protection or very warm microclimates.
How do I prevent fungal diseases on peppers in San Francisco's humid climate?
Improve air circulation by spacing plants 24 inches apart and using drip irrigation to keep foliage dry. Water early morning so plants dry before afternoon fog arrives. Remove infected plant material immediately and avoid overhead watering. Choose resistant varieties when available and apply organic fungicides preventatively during humid periods.
Can I grow hot peppers like habaneros in San Francisco?
Capsicum chinense 'Habanero' can be grown in San Francisco but requires special attention. Plant in the warmest, most protected location against south-facing walls. Consider container growing so plants can be moved to capture maximum sun. A small greenhouse or cold frame significantly improves success rates. Start seeds early (March) and be prepared for a longer growing season (120+ days).
What's the best soil preparation for peppers in San Francisco?
San Francisco's sandy soils need organic matter for water retention. Add 2-4 inches of compost or aged manure and create raised beds 6-8 inches high for drainage during winter rains. Test soil pH – add lime if below 6.0 as peppers prefer 6.0-7.0 pH. The combination of good drainage and organic matter retention is crucial for success.
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Written By
D
David Kim
David is a software engineer who got into gardening after buying a fixer-upper in the Sunset District with a neglected backyard. San Francisco's microclimates fascinated him—he quickly learned that what grows three blocks away might not work in his fog belt yard. David now maintains a productive vegetable garden despite the marine layer, growing cool-season crops almost year-round and experimenting with season extension techniques. He volunteers at a local community garden and writes about urban food growing, microclimate gardening, and the particular challenges of Bay Area conditions. His approach is methodical—he keeps detailed notes and isn't afraid to share what didn't work.
