I'm not going to get in any pH arguments but I feel it is important.
In my soil a pH of 8.5 the plants would just sit there and do nothing.
Soils differ as to what plants will grow in as far as pH from what I have read.
I have no other experience but my own to offer.
Pepper plants of all types like a pH on the acidic side just like tomatoes.
Growing big giant sweet bells mystify me I have no idea how these people do it.
Worth