Hot Pepper Seeds - Carolina Reaper

The Carolina Reaper is world-famous as one of the hottest peppers, boasting a fiery heat level that challenges even the bravest spice lovers. With its wrinkled, scorpion-like appearance and vibrant red color, this pepper is not just about heat—it also has a surprisingly fruity flavor that shines in small doses. Perfect for making hot sauces, spicy salsas, or infused oils, the Carolina Reaper is a must-have for chili enthusiasts looking to grow the ultimate in heat and flavor.

Key Benefits

• Extreme Heat: Rated at over 2.2 million Scoville Heat Units (SHU), making it one of the hottest peppers in the world.
• Unique Flavor: Offers a fruity, slightly sweet taste when used sparingly.
• Versatile in the Kitchen: Ideal for sauces, powders, and marinades.
• Eye-Catching Appearance: Vibrant red pods with a signature "tail" add visual interest to gardens.
• High Yield: Produces plenty of peppers on well-cared-for plants.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Bushy plants reaching 3–4 feet tall, with sturdy branches.
• Fruit Profile: Small, wrinkled pods with a pointed tail, typically 1–3 inches long.
• Flavor: Fruity and sweet, with an intense heat that lingers.
• Maturity: Ready to harvest in 90–100 days from transplanting.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last frost date.
• Transplant outdoors only when the soil temperature consistently exceeds 70°F (21°C).

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting mix.
• Spacing: Space plants 18–24 inches apart in rows 24–36 inches apart.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 6.0–6.8.
• Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging.
• Reduce watering slightly once fruits begin to mature for enhanced flavor.

Fertilization

• Use a balanced fertilizer during early growth. Switch to a low-nitrogen fertilizer as plants begin to flower.

Weeding and Mulching

• Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Monitor for aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies; treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap if needed.
• Diseases: Prevent fungal diseases by ensuring proper spacing, good air circulation, and avoiding overhead watering.

Harvesting

When to Harvest

• Harvest when peppers turn bright red and feel firm to the touch, typically 90–100 days from transplanting.

How to Harvest

• Use scissors or garden shears to carefully cut peppers from the plant to avoid damaging branches.

Storage

• Fresh Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Drying: Dry peppers to create flakes or powder for long-term storage.
• Freezing: Freeze whole or chopped peppers for later use in cooking.

Culinary Uses

• Hot Sauces: Create fiery homemade sauces with intense heat and fruity undertones.
• Salsas: Add a touch of Carolina Reaper for an ultra-spicy kick.
• Infused Oils: Use to make chili-infused oils for cooking or garnishing.
• Chili Powders: Dry and grind peppers into powder to season dishes.
• Marinades and Rubs: Enhance meats and vegetables with a bold, spicy flavor.

Safety Note

When handling Carolina Reaper peppers, always wear gloves and avoid touching your face or eyes. Wash hands thoroughly after handling and use utensils to process peppers.

Conclusion

Carolina Reaper peppers are the pinnacle of spice, perfect for gardeners and chefs who crave extreme heat with a twist of fruity flavor. With proper care, this variety produces abundant fiery-red pods that make a bold statement in both your garden and your dishes. Whether you’re crafting hot sauces, seasoning meals, or simply growing the world’s hottest pepper for fun, the Carolina Reaper is a fiery addition to your collection.