Hot Pepper Seeds - Santa Fe Grande

Santa Fe Grande peppers, also known as “Yellow Hot Chili Peppers,” are a stunning variety celebrated for their vibrant yellow color, mild-to-medium heat, and versatile culinary applications. These peppers transition from pale yellow to orange and finally to red as they mature, offering a rainbow of colors throughout the growing season. Perfect for salsas, pickling, or adding a mild kick to dishes, Santa Fe Grande peppers are an excellent addition to any garden.

Key Benefits

• Mild to Medium Heat: Provides a gentle kick, making them ideal for diverse culinary uses (500–700 SHUs).
• Vibrant Colors: Bright yellow peppers that mature into orange and red add visual appeal.
• Prolific Yields: Highly productive plants that deliver an abundance of fruit.
• Disease Resistance: Naturally resistant to many common pepper diseases.
• Easy to Grow: Suitable for both beginner and experienced gardeners.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Compact, bushy plants growing 24–36 inches tall.
• Fruit Profile: Conical-shaped peppers, about 2–3 inches long, with thick, crisp walls.
• Heat Level: Mild-to-medium heat that enhances flavor without overpowering.
• Maturity: 75–85 days from transplanting to harvest.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last frost date.
• Transplant outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and temperatures stay above 70°F (21°C).

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: 1/4 inch deep.
• Spacing: Space plants 12–18 inches apart in rows 18–24 inches apart.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5.
• Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth and fruit production.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Water deeply once or twice a week, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged.
• Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilization

• Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at planting and again during fruit production.

Weeding and Mulching

• Keep the area free of weeds to minimize competition for nutrients.
• Use mulch to conserve moisture and maintain a stable soil temperature.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Watch for aphids, thrips, and spider mites. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can be used for control.
• Diseases: Rotate crops annually and ensure proper spacing to prevent diseases like bacterial spot and blight.

Harvesting

When to Harvest

• Harvest when peppers are bright yellow for the mildest flavor, or allow them to mature to orange or red for a sweeter taste.
• Typically ready 75–85 days after transplanting.

How to Harvest

• Use scissors or pruning shears to cut peppers from the plant, leaving a small stem attached to avoid damage.

Storage

• Fresh Storage: Store fresh peppers in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
• Pickling: Santa Fe Grande peppers are excellent for pickling and can be preserved for months.
• Freezing: Freeze chopped or whole peppers to extend their shelf life.

Culinary Uses

• Salsas: Add a mild heat and vibrant color to fresh or cooked salsas.
• Pickling: Preserve their crisp texture and tangy flavor with simple pickling recipes.
• Stuffed: Hollow out and stuff with cheese or meats for a delightful appetizer.
• Stir-Fries: Enhance the flavor of stir-fries with their mild spice.
• Grilled or Roasted: Roast or grill for a smoky, sweet heat.

Conclusion

Santa Fe Grande peppers are a delightful choice for gardeners seeking a mild-to-medium heat pepper that delivers both flavor and visual appeal. Easy to grow and highly versatile in the kitchen, these peppers are perfect for adding a pop of color and a gentle kick to a wide range of dishes. Whether pickled, stuffed, or sautéed, Santa Fe Grande peppers are sure to impress.