How to grow exotic jalapeño peppers at home: tips

Jalapeño is one of the most popular varieties of hot peppers, originally from Mexico. It has a rich green color, a pleasant aroma, and a spicy flavor that makes it an indispensable ingredient for many dishes.

Although they are native to warm climates, it is quite possible to grow them at home even if you don't have a summer cottage or garden. Homes and Gardens reported how to do it.

Jalapeños and any other type of chili pepper or bell pepper are great options for growing vegetables in pots.

Sowing seeds

Jalapeños have a long growing season, so the ideal time to sow is from January to March.

You can collect seeds from store-bought peppers to sow at home. To do this, scrape them off a ripe chili pepper and air-dry them for a few days.

Next, soak the seeds in warm water for eight hours, and then put them in a small container on compost. Add a light coating of soil and pour water over them. This plant likes warmth, so you can place the pot on a radiator or on a heated mat.

Planting in a pot

The seeds should germinate within 14 days. After that, you need to transplant them into a fairly large pot with a capacity of 15-19 liters.

Experts recommend planting only one jalapeño pepper per pot as it needs a lot of space to grow during the season.

After transplanting, place the plant in a sunny place.

Care

Jalapeño peppers need a lot of watering and fertilizing, but do not overdo it and do not flood the plant. You should not let the soil dry out. If you notice wilted leaves, you are probably using too much water.

Potted soil should provide all the nutrients for the first six weeks, so don't forget to fertilize your peppers regularly. When the plants start to produce flowers and fruits, it is recommended to switch to a fertilizer with a lower nitrogen content.

Harvesting

Jalapeños can be harvested from midsummer when the fruits are at least 7-8 centimeters long.

Do not pull or tear off the fruit to avoid damaging either the pepper or the plant. It is better to cut off the crop with a sharp knife or secateurs.

In addition, pick the fruits regularly as this encourages the plant to produce more pepper.

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