Shade definitely has its benefits for peppers - I've found the Habs like it most of all. I'll have 2,000+ pepper plants this year for our production operation, and am right out in the middle of a field. So, not lots o' chance for shade. I expect Jim Campbell has the same problem - ??? The best I can do, for now, is to mulch (with wood chips, and after the soil has completely warmed up! -- Robert Farr (540) 668-7160 Check out http://www.thechileman.com for Hot Sauces, Salsas, Mustards & More!