Hot Pepper Seeds - Serrano Tampiqueno

Serrano Tampiqueño peppers are a classic, flavorful variety of hot peppers cherished for their crisp texture, vibrant green to red color, and versatile culinary applications. Known for their bright, medium heat, these peppers are a staple in salsas, sauces, and fresh dishes. Highly productive and easy to grow, Serrano Tampiqueño plants thrive in various climates, making them a favorite among home gardeners and chefs alike.

Key Benefits

• Bright Medium Heat: Offers a moderate level of spiciness, perfect for enhancing flavor without overwhelming heat.
• Prolific Yields: Produces an abundance of slender peppers throughout the growing season.
• Versatile Use: Ideal for fresh salsas, hot sauces, pickling, and cooking.
• Compact Growth: Perfect for small gardens and containers.
• Extended Harvest: Fruits can be harvested at both green and red stages for varied flavor profiles.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Upright plants grow 24–36 inches tall with abundant foliage.
• Fruit Profile: Slender, tapered peppers, 2–3 inches long, with a smooth skin.
• Flavor: Crisp, tangy, and moderately hot, with a Scoville rating of 10,000–23,000.
• Color Transition: Matures from bright green to vibrant red when fully ripe.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last frost date.
• Transplant outdoors when the risk of frost has passed, and soil temperatures reach at least 70°F (21°C).

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep.
• Spacing: Space plants 18–24 inches apart in rows 24–36 inches apart.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–6.8.
• Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth and fruit production.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture.
• Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and ensure healthy plant development.

Fertilization

• Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at planting and during fruiting.
• Supplement with compost or organic matter for sustained nutrient support.

Weeding and Mulching

• Keep the area around plants free from weeds to reduce competition for nutrients.
• Apply mulch to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weed growth.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Monitor for aphids, thrips, and spider mites. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed.
• Diseases: Ensure proper air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues like anthracnose or powdery mildew.

Harvesting

Maturity

• Serrano Tampiqueño peppers are ready to harvest in 70–80 days.
• Pick when peppers are firm, glossy, and 2–3 inches long.

Method

• Harvest with scissors or a sharp knife to avoid damaging the plant.
• Harvest regularly to encourage continuous fruit production.

Storage

• Short-Term: Store fresh peppers in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Long-Term: Freeze whole peppers, or dry and grind them for use as a spice.

Culinary Uses

• Fresh Salsas: Adds a zesty, spicy kick to traditional salsas and dips.
• Hot Sauces: Perfect for blending into hot sauces with a tangy, medium heat.
• Pickling: Excellent for pickling to create tangy, spicy pepper slices.
• Cooking: Enhances soups, stews, and stir-fries with a burst of flavor and heat.
• Garnishes: Slice and use as a fresh topping for tacos, nachos, or burgers.

Conclusion

Serrano Tampiqueño peppers are a versatile and reliable choice for gardeners and culinary enthusiasts looking to add medium heat to their dishes. With their high yield, ease of cultivation, and flavorful heat, these peppers are a must-have for salsas, sauces, and beyond. Whether enjoyed fresh, pickled, or cooked, Serrano Tampiqueño peppers bring vibrant flavor and spice to any recipe.