Hot Pepper Jalapeño (Capsicum annuum) is a popular, medium-hot chili pepper known for its thick, fleshy walls and spicy yet slightly sweet flavor. These versatile peppers are commonly used fresh, pickled, or dried and are a staple in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine. Jalapeños are easy to grow and thrive in warm climates, making them a great addition to home gardens.

How to Grow Jalapeño Peppers

Sowing and Germination

• Starting Indoors:

  • Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last frost.
  • Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed trays or pots filled with well-draining soil.
  • Maintain a temperature of 75–85°F for best germination (use a heat mat if needed).
  • Germination typically takes 7–14 days.

• Transplanting:

  • Harden off seedlings 7–10 days before transplanting outdoors.
  • Transplant when night temperatures stay above 55°F and soil is at least 70°F.

Plant Spacing:

• Space plants 12–18 inches apart in rows 24–36 inches apart for optimal air circulation and fruit production.

Soil Requirements:

• Prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0–6.8.
• Enrich soil with compost or aged manure before planting.

Sunlight:

• Requires full sun, at least 6–8 hours daily for maximum yield and spice level.

Growing Jalapeño Peppers

Watering:

• Water consistently, 1–2 inches per week, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
• Avoid overwatering, as peppers dislike "wet feet" and can suffer from root rot.

Mulching:

• Apply a light layer of mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Fertilizing:

• Use a balanced fertilizer (such as 5-10-10) when planting.
• Once flowers appear, switch to a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus, and potassium fertilizer to encourage fruit production.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it promotes leafy growth over fruiting.

Pest and Disease Management:

• Common pests: Aphids, spider mites, and pepper weevils—use neem oil or insecticidal soap as needed.
• Fungal diseases: Ensure good airflow and avoid overhead watering to prevent blossom-end rot, bacterial leaf spot, and powdery mildew.
• Rotate crops yearly to prevent soil-borne diseases.

Fast Facts

• Latin Name: Capsicum annuum
• Type: Annual (in most climates)
• USDA Zones: 3–11 (grown as an annual), 9–11 (perennial in warm climates)
• Days to Germination: 7–14 days
• Days to Maturity: 70–85 days
• Plant Height: 24–36 inches
• Spacing: 12–18 inches apart
• Soil pH: 6.0–6.8
• Fruit Color: Green when unripe, turning red when fully mature
• Heat Level: 2,500–8,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU)

How and When to Harvest Jalapeño Peppers

• Harvest when peppers are 3–4 inches long and firm, glossy green (about 70–85 days after transplanting).
• For a sweeter, spicier flavor, allow peppers to ripen to red.
• Use scissors or garden shears to cut the peppers with a short stem attached to avoid damaging the plant.
• Picking regularly encourages more fruit production.

Jalapeño Pepper Seed Saving

• Select fully ripe, red jalapeños for seed saving.
• Cut open the pepper, remove seeds, and spread them on a paper towel to dry for 1–2 weeks in a warm, dry place.
• Store dried seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 3 years.

Jalapeños are a low-maintenance, high-yielding pepper variety perfect for fresh eating, pickling, stuffing, and drying. With the right care, you’ll enjoy a continuous harvest of spicy, delicious peppers all season long! 🌶🔥