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Love spicy food?
Why not grow your own jalapenos?
It’s easier than you think. Here are 8 simple tactics to help you grow jalapenos from seeds.
Ready to spice up your garden?
Let’s get planting!
Getting the Right Seeds
If you’re aiming to grow jalapeños, start with quality seeds. Visit your local garden store or look online for reputable seed companies.
You can also save seeds from a jalapeño that you’ve enjoyed before. Just make sure it was fully ripe when you got the seeds out!
Choosing the Perfect Soil
Good soil is essential! Get some potting soil that’s rich in organic material.
Jalapeños love soil that’s well-draining but also holds moisture. Don’t use garden soil because it can be too heavy and might come with pests.
Starting Seeds Indoors
Start your seeds indoors about 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Plant them in small pots or seed trays.
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. A sunny windowsill or grow lights are perfect for giving them the light they need.
Watering Wisely
Jalapeños like their water, but don’t overdo it. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soaking wet.
Water them when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Too much water can lead to root rot.
Transplanting Outdoors
Once the seedlings are about 2-3 inches tall and you’re past the danger of frost, it’s time to move them outside. Make sure your outdoor spot gets plenty of sunlight.
Space your plants about 12-18 inches apart to give them room to grow.
Fertilizing for Success
Use a balanced fertilizer to give your jalapeños all the nutrients they need. A fertilizer high in phosphorus is good for developing strong roots.
Apply it according to the package instructions. Don’t over-fertilize, or you might burn the plants.
Pruning and Maintenance
Watch your plants grow and don’t be afraid to do a little pruning. Cutting off the first few flowers can help the plant focus on growing strong.
Keep an eye out for pests and treat them with organic insecticides if needed.
Harvesting Your Jalapeños
Finally, the fun part! Your jalapeños are ready to harvest when they’re about 3-4 inches long and have a bright green color.
You can also wait until they turn red for a sweeter flavor. Simply twist off the peppers or use scissors to cut them off the plant.