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Love spicy jalapenos but short on space?
No worries! You can grow them in a pot.
Here are 9 easy tactics to help you succeed.
Get ready for fresh and fiery jalapenos right at home!
Let’s jump in!
Pick the Right Pot
First things first, you need a pot that’s at least 12 inches deep and 12 inches wide. Jalapenos need room to grow, so don’t skimp on size.
Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Choose a material that suits your style, but terracotta or plastic pots both work great.
Use Quality Soil
Jalapenos thrive in rich, well-draining soil. Pick up a high-quality potting mix from your local garden center.
If you want to go the extra mile, mix in some compost to give your plants a nutrient boost. Avoid using garden soil as it’s too dense and can stunt your pepper’s growth.
Planting Your Seeds or Seedlings
If you’re starting from seeds, plant them about 1/4 inch deep. For seedlings, dig a hole deep enough to cover the roots.
Space them at least 18 inches apart if you’re planting more than one per pot. After planting, gently pat down the soil and water thoroughly.
Water Consistently
Jalapenos need regular watering, especially in pots where soil dries out faster. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
A good rule of thumb is to water when the top inch of soil feels dry. During hot months, you might need to water daily.
Give Them Plenty of Sun
These peppers love the sun, so make sure your pot gets at least 6-8 hours of sunlight every day. If you can’t find a sunny spot, consider using a grow light.
The more sun your plant gets, the more jalapenos you’ll harvest.
Fertilize Regularly
Feed your jalapenos with a balanced fertilizer every couple of weeks. Look for a fertilizer specifically for vegetables for best results.
Follow the instructions on the package to avoid over-fertilizing, which can do more harm than good.
Watch Out for Pests
Jalapenos are pretty tough, but they can still fall prey to pests like aphids or spider mites. Check your plants regularly for any signs of pests.
If you find any, treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil to keep them at bay.
Prune for Better Growth
Prune your plant when it’s about a foot tall to encourage bushier growth. Snip off the top inch or so with clean scissors.
This helps the plant focus its energy on growing more branches, which leads to more flowers and, you guessed it, more jalapenos!
Harvest Time
Your jalapenos will be ready to harvest in about 70-80 days after planting. They turn from green to red as they mature, but you can pick them at either stage.
Use scissors or a knife to cut them off the plant to avoid damaging the stem.