These procedures will produce pure, high-quality seeds of chili or sweet pepper (Capsicum spp.) line.

(Click on the photo at left to see examples of excellent and poor seed quality in pepper).

Pure means the absence of seeds from other lines, cross-pollinations and off-types (plants that differ in appearance from the line being produced).

High-quality means that the seeds will have a shiny tan seed coat, plump endosperm, high germination rate (at least 70%), and be free of debris and disease.

The requirements for producing pure, high-quality seeds include favorable climatic conditions, a suitable field, the proper equipment, and good management practices. This tutorial will discuss all these factors.

Before going farther, it is important to note that these procedures cannot be used to produce seeds for hybrids. Special techniques, not described in this guide, must be used to produce F1 hybrid seed.

Now, let's learn about multiplying pepper seed....