when my bell pepper plants start to bloom before I can get them out in the garden (probably because I jumped the gun and started them too early) their growth seems to be stunted and they produce poorly. Is there a strategy to avoid this, like just start them later so they are still actively growing before they go out in the garden?

Best is, as you indicate, don't start them so early.

Otherwise all you can do is pinch off the blooms as soon as you see them even starting to develop. Plants grow in cycles of approximately 2-3 weeks (which is why starting too early causes problems). They alternate their focus between vegetative growth with blooming and fruiting. Once they kick into blooming the vegetative growth slows or even stops. Removing the blooms ASAP will usually push them back into at least some new veg growth.

A general rule of thumb is to never let plants bloom until at least 10-14 days after planting in their final place. Exceptions? Sure, but covers most situations.

Dave

Can I assume this rule applies just to veggies, not flowers?

Can I assume this rule applies just to veggies, not flowers?

The general rule of thumb you mean? Applies to both.

Most flowers have always had the guideline of pinching back or removing any blooms before transplanting far as I know unless you are trying to force blooms indoors for some reason. But if you are growing seedlings of any plant with the purpose of transplanting them outside there is nothing to be gained by letting them develop blooms indoors.

Of course commercial growers force blooms for the eye appeal for sales but usually a reputable grower will recommend removing those blooms before transplanting.

Try it both ways side by side and note the differences.

Dave