Question
I have recently decided to try out my thumb and see if I can grow something without killing it. I picked up a couple of pots (plastic pots -- the water from below type), miracle grow potting soil, and two pepper plants. The Jalapeno pepper plant is thriving just fine but I am having a little trouble with the Yellow Pepper plant. I watered them from the top for a weeks as recommended by the pot manufacturer and I have started watering them from the bottom lip over the last few days. The Yellow Pepper plant seems limp and the leaves and stems are turning a DARK green. I have no idea what is wrong with it. I initially thought it was just planting shock, but it is getting progressively worse and the two lowest stems appear to be getting weak and the leaves are drooping and almost look like they are shriveling. Since this is my first attempt, I have no idea what is wrong. I have looked at several items on this site but have found nothing relevant to my issue. I live in Arizona and the plants are on a 2nd floor balcony that faces east so they get a good dose of morning and partly afternoon sun, but do not get scorched from the western sky in the afternoon. Any suggestion that you may have would be much appreciated!

Answer
Dear Walter,
I am strictly organic, so I don't have any area of expertise regarding "miracle grow."  But, it does sound like the pepper may not be getting the proper amount of water.  Try backing off of the watering just a bit and see if there is any improvement.  If it gets worse, try more water.  A water variable is the quickest to note and change.  Other than that, I just recommend plain ol' potting soil without additives and perhaps you need some sand in the bottom for better drainage.  Sometimes potted vegetables don't drain properly.
Hopefully one of these ideas will help.
Kind Regards,
Kindred
www.eingedi.us