Jalapeños are a popular choice for gardeners due to their medium heat and versatility. These peppers thrive in warm climates and can be grown in containers. Varieties like 'Señorita' and 'Mucho Nacho' offer unique traits in size and heat levels. While moderately challenging to grow, they require attention to temperature and soil conditions for optimal care.
- Common Names: Chile Gordo, Huachinango
- Scientific Name: Capsicum annuum
- Plant Type: Perennial, fruit
- Plant Height: 1-4 feet
- Growing Difficulty: Medium
- Growing Time: 3-4 months
- Bloom Time: Summer
- Temperature: 65-85°F
- Hardiness zone: 9-11 (Find your hardiness zone here)
- Sunlight: Full Sun
- Soil pH: 6-7
- Watering Frequency: Water when soil is dry
- Plant spacing: Space plants 14-24 inches apart
Different Methods to Grow Jalapenos
Starting Seeds Indoors
Sow seeds 8-10 weeks before the last frost date. Use a seed-starting mix and keep the soil warm (at least 70°F). Provide grow lights for 16 hours a day. Pot up seedlings when they have two sets of true leaves and harden them off before transplanting outdoors.
- Pros: Control over the growing environment, early start.
- Cons: Requires space, equipment, and time.
Purchasing Transplants
Choose healthy plants with green leaves and strong foliage from a nursery. Transplant them into the garden once nighttime temperatures are reliably above 60°F. Space plants about 14-16 inches apart with 2-3 feet between rows.
- Pros: Convenient, saves time and effort.
- Cons: Limited variety, potential for transplant shock.
Growing in Pots
Use a 3-gallon container with ample drainage holes. An unglazed clay pot is ideal for moisture escape. Use a quality potting mix that drains well. Situate the plant at the same depth as in its previous pot and water after planting.
- Pros: Mobility, control over soil conditions, can be brought indoors.
- Cons: Limited root space, frequent watering and fertilizing needed.
Ideal Soil and Location Requirements
For optimal growth, jalapeños need loamy, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. They thrive in full sun, ideally in a sunny, sheltered spot. Ensure the soil is slightly acidic to neutral, and avoid planting near other nightshades.
When to Plant Jalapenos
Jalapeños should be planted in the spring after the last frost date. Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Transplant outdoors when nighttime temperatures are above 60°F and daytime temperatures are between 70-75°F. Avoid planting during frost as jalapeños are sensitive to cold.
Growing Jalapenos Outdoors
The best method to grow jalapeños outdoors is by transplanting seedlings or starter plants. This method is the easiest because it avoids the complexities of starting seeds indoors and ensures that the plants are already at a suitable growth stage for outdoor planting.
- Choose healthy transplants. Select strong, green plants from a nursery with no signs of disease or pests.
- Prepare the soil. Work a 3- to 5-inch layer of compost into the soil to a depth of 6 to 10 inches. Ensure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter.
- Wait for the right temperatures. Transplant seedlings when daytime temperatures are between 70° to 75°F and nighttime temperatures are above 60°F.
- Harden off seedlings. Gradually expose the seedlings to outdoor conditions for about 10 days before transplanting to reduce transplant shock.
- Plant the seedlings. Space plants 14 to 24 inches apart, with rows spaced at least 2 feet apart. Plant them at the same depth as they were in their containers.
- Water thoroughly. After planting, water the seedlings well to help them settle into their new environment.
- Mulch the soil. Apply a layer of mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, to retain moisture and keep the soil cool.
- Water appropriately. Let the top inch or two of soil dry out before watering again. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
- Fertilize when needed. Use a high-potassium feed or tomato feed when the first flowers appear to encourage fruiting.
- Support the plants. Use bamboo sticks or small tomato cages to support taller varieties and prevent them from falling over.
- Weed regularly. Carefully remove weeds around young plants to reduce competition for nutrients and water.
Growing Jalapenos Indoors
Growing jalapeños indoors is entirely possible and can be quite successful if you follow the right steps. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide for home gardeners:
- Choose a container. Use a 3-gallon container with ample drainage holes. An unglazed clay pot is ideal for allowing excess soil moisture to escape.
- Prepare the soil. Use a quality potting mix that drains well. Ensure the soil is fertile and slightly acidic to neutral in pH.
- Plant the seeds. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in the soil. Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date.
- Provide light. Place the container in a sunny spot where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. If natural light is insufficient, use grow lights.
- Water appropriately. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
- Maintain temperature. Keep daytime temperatures between 65-85°F and nighttime temperatures between 60-70°F.
- Fertilize regularly. Use a liquid fertilizer as directed to keep the plants healthy and productive. Apply a high-potassium feed when the first flowers appear.
- Support the plant. Use bamboo sticks or small tomato cages to support taller varieties and prevent them from falling over.
- Pollinate the flowers. Gently shake the plant every few days to distribute pollen if growing indoors.
- Monitor for pests. Regularly check for common pests like aphids and mites. Treat infestations promptly to keep the plant healthy.
The more corking (tiny brown lines) on the jalapeño, the hotter it is!
Caring for Jalapenos
- Watering: Jalapeños need consistent moisture, but be careful not to overwater. Let the top inch or two of soil dry out before watering again. This helps prevent root rot and other water-related issues.
- Fertilizing: When the first flowers appear, give your plants a tomato feed or a high-potassium fertilizer. This encourages healthy fruit development. A balanced granular fertilizer or compost can also be beneficial throughout the growing season.
- Pest Management: Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids, spider mites, and hornworms. Use insecticidal soap for aphids, hand-pick hornworms, and mist plants to deter spider mites. Regularly check the undersides of leaves for any signs of infestation.
- Harvesting: Jalapeños are ready to pick when they reach their full size and color. For the classic jalapeño snap, harvest when they are green. Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the peppers, leaving a short stem attached. Always wear gloves to avoid skin irritation.
- Support and Maintenance: Taller varieties may need support to prevent them from falling over. Use bamboo sticks or small tomato cages. Additionally, mulch around the plants to retain moisture and keep the soil cool, especially in warmer regions.
Common Challenges With Jalapenos
Jalapeños are relatively easy to grow, especially if you can provide them with the right conditions. They thrive in warm, sunny environments and don't require a lot of space, making them perfect for container gardening. In my experience, a few well-cared-for plants can supply a family with plenty of peppers throughout the summer. The key is to ensure they get enough sunlight and are planted in well-draining soil.
However, growing jalapeños does come with its challenges. Overwatering is a common issue, as these plants dislike sitting in wet conditions, which can lead to root rot. Pests like aphids and spider mites can also be problematic, and extreme temperatures can cause flower drop or sunscald. Despite these challenges, with a bit of attention and care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of these spicy delights.
Safety of Jalapenos for Pets
Jalapeños are toxic to cats, dogs, and other pets. If you suspect your pet has ingested jalapeños, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control 24-hour hotline immediately for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my jalapeño peppers small?
Small jalapeño peppers can result from overwatering, overfertilizing, or insufficient sunlight. Ensure the plants receive full sun and avoid excessive watering. Proper spacing and using a high-potassium fertilizer when flowers appear can also help improve pepper size.
How can I increase the size of my jalapeño peppers?
To increase the size of your jalapeño peppers, provide them with full sun, well-draining soil, and consistent watering. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can lead to smaller fruits. Using a high-potassium feed when the first flowers appear can also promote larger peppers.
Do jalapeño plants come back every year?
Jalapeño plants are perennial in hot climates but are typically grown as annuals in cooler regions. In colder areas, you can overwinter container-grown plants indoors in a sunny spot to keep them alive for the next growing season.
How many pepper plants can you grow in a bucket?
It is ideal to grow one pepper plant per 3- or 5-gallon bucket. While multiple plants can survive in a single bucket, they will not produce as many peppers due to limited space and resources. Larger buckets can accommodate more plants.
