How about growing big bell peppers? My peppers have been small the past few years.

Question: How about growing big bell peppers? My peppers have been small the past few years.

Answer: Chances are that something has changed in your garden. Has a nearby tree put on a spurt of growth? Peppers need eight hours of direct sunlight. Has the drainage changed? Peppers easily succumb to wet feet. Have you tested the soil? Peppers require a sweet soil -- pH between 6 and 8, phosphorous-rich -- bonemeal works well, and a soil high in organic matter. Also, you might try some of the large pepper varieties such as 'Goliath' or 'Big Bertha'. --Gardening experts George and Becky Lohmiller, Hancock, New Hampshire