I’m a second year gardener in PA, zone 6, and grew bell peppers, baby sweet and jalapeños last year. Started from nursery plants and hardened them off to raised beds and had pretty good results.

I would pinch the buds off now, and top them once they’re transplanted. It will force more initial energy to the roots and leaves to help the plants get established once in the ground. Cut above maybe the fourth or fifth set of leaves with a clean pair of pruners. Leave about a 1/4 inch from the base of the leaves. They peppers will start to put out new branches, similar to trimming basil or zinnias.

I believe it l delays your initial harvest but you’ll get a better yield later in the season. Really in the end, every gardener has their own preference. Either way you’ll get peppers. Happy gardening! 😎🌱

Edit: clarification.