Dharaseeds
Hot Pepper Seeds - Jalapeno M
Estimated delivery between February 05 and February 08.
Jalapeno M is a popular, medium-heat pepper variety known for its vibrant green color and bold flavor. These peppers are a staple in many kitchens, offering a perfect balance of heat and flavor. Jalapeno M peppers are ideal for adding spice to salsas, sauces, grilling, and more. Whether you enjoy them fresh, pickled, or roasted, this variety delivers a consistent yield of flavorful, spicy peppers. With their manageable heat level and adaptability, Jalapeno M peppers are perfect for both beginner and experienced gardeners looking to add a touch of heat to their garden.
Key Benefits
- Medium Heat: Offers a moderate level of heat, making it a great choice for those who enjoy spice without overwhelming intensity.
- Versatile in the Kitchen: Perfect for fresh salsas, pickling, grilling, and adding to a variety of dishes.
- High Yield: Known for producing a large number of peppers per plant, ensuring a bountiful harvest.
- Compact Growth: Grows well in both small and larger garden spaces, including containers.
- Easy to Grow: Suitable for beginner gardeners while providing consistent results.
Variety Features
- Plant Characteristics: Bushy plants that typically grow 18–24 inches tall. Compact, making them ideal for smaller garden spaces or containers.
- Flavor Profile: A distinctive, zesty flavor with a moderate heat level, perfect for a variety of dishes.
- Growth Habit: Produces small, upright peppers that ripen from green to red.
- Size: Peppers typically grow to about 2–3 inches in length, with a thick, fleshy texture.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season
- Start indoors 8–10 weeks before the last frost date, or sow directly outdoors once the soil has warmed up and all danger of frost has passed.
- Ideal growing temperatures are between 70°F–85°F (21°C–29°C).
Planting Details
- Seed Depth: Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep.
- Spacing: Space plants 12–18 inches apart in rows 24–36 inches apart.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0.
- Sunlight: Full sun is essential for optimal growth and fruit production.
Care Instructions
Watering
- Water consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
- Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the leaves, which can encourage disease.
Fertilization
- Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at planting time and once more when the plants begin to flower.
- Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can promote leafy growth at the expense of pepper production.
Weeding and Mulching
- Regularly weed around the base of the plant to reduce competition for nutrients.
- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Pest and Disease Control
- Pests: Keep an eye out for aphids, whiteflies, and caterpillars. Organic pest control methods such as neem oil or insecticidal soap can help manage these pests.
- Diseases: Jalapenos are susceptible to blight and fungal diseases. Practice crop rotation and ensure proper spacing between plants to improve airflow and reduce disease risk.
Harvesting
Maturity
- Jalapeno M peppers are typically ready for harvest in 60–80 days from transplanting.
- Harvest when the peppers are firm and shiny, usually when they reach 2–3 inches in length. For a milder flavor, pick while they are green; for a spicier, more intense heat, allow them to ripen to red.
Method
- Use scissors or pruning shears to snip peppers from the plant, being careful not to damage the stems.
Storage
- Short-Term: Fresh peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1–2 weeks.
- Long-Term: Jalapenos can be pickled, dried, or frozen for long-term storage. To freeze, blanch peppers for 2 minutes before placing them in freezer bags.
Culinary Uses
- Fresh Salsas: Perfect for adding spice and flavor to homemade salsa.
- Pickled Peppers: Great for pickling and preserving the heat.
- Grilling: Grill whole peppers for a smoky flavor, or stuff them for a delicious appetizer.
- Sauces and Stews: Add to sauces and stews for a subtle heat and rich flavor.
- Drying: Dry peppers to make chili powder or flakes.
Conclusion
Jalapeno M peppers are a must-have for gardeners who enjoy adding a moderate level of heat to their meals. With their versatility in the kitchen, high yield, and ease of growth, they are an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned gardeners. Whether fresh, pickled, or dried, Jalapeno M peppers will add bold flavor and a satisfying kick to your culinary creations.