The absolute maximum lifespan of a pepper plant is unclear, but some species of pepper plants tend to have an easier time thriving for years than others. Since pepper plants are perennials, they can keep growing year after year. With extra care, some gardeners have been able to keep their pepper plants alive for anywhere from 5 to 15 years. Pepper plants can easily live several years if kept safe from frost and disease. For example, the Dorset Naga and ghost pepper can both grow up to 5 feet or more in a large enough container or in the ground if kept alive for a few years.

Over the years, some pepper plant varieties can grow much taller than they would in a normal growing season.

Alternatively, gardeners can overwinter their pepper plants indoors and take them back outside in the spring.

While pepper plants are often grown as annuals, they can be grown as perennials in areas where there is no risk of frost.

Can You Get Peppers When Overwintering Pepper Plants?Īll pepper varieties are tender perennials, meaning they can continue growing if not exposed to frost.

Are Pepper Plants Perennials or Annuals?.

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