Right now would be a good time.

Yes, I would prune now.
I'd trim it back to the edge of the container, essentially.

Josh

Thanks guys. Appreciate the input.

I've only pruned random branches during growing season, never so much of a vibrant, flowering plant.

Are there general rules for when and how much to prune on plants of this size?

It's something you get a feel for as you do it and see the results. In this case the call is easy as those long limbs will eventually break - inevitably with a full load of nearly ripe pods. For more details, search for "pruning techniques". Pictures will be more educational than words.

Dennis

Brian: You want to give a tutorial on overwintering peppers? That's one of the healthiest I've ever seen and very lush for this time of the year. Especially in your zone.

Kevin

Pruning it sooner would have been ideal. You wanna do it in the winter. But since it is early in the season it wouldn't have a significant effect on the plant. In fact it will probably help the plant. In general, deformed, broken, or growth that is excessive, relative to the rest of the plant should be pruned.

I agree with Kevin, that's one beautiful plant.

Would love to hear how you did it even though it rarely gets freezing here in Southern California.
Others would def benefit :-)

Other than the fact I let it get a little unruly, it did work out well. I guess I just didn't overthink it too much. I watered every 4 to 5 days and fertilized every 3 to 4 weeks. I'm surprised it did so well since it only got 3 to 4 hours of sun per day (and that's also considering the Minnesota winter days with no sun).

Now I need to plan which of my plants to pot this year so I can bring them inside before the snow flies again.

I did prune it quite a bit today. Thanks for the pointers.

Other than the fact I let it get a little unruly, it did work out well. I guess I just didn't overthink it too much. I watered every 4 to 5 days and fertilized every 3 to 4 weeks. I'm surprised it did so well since it only got 3 to 4 hours of sun per day (and that's also considering the Minnesota winter days with no sun).

Now I need to plan which of my plants to pot this year so I can bring them inside before the snow flies again.

I did prune it quite a bit today. Thanks for the pointers.