Dharaseeds
Hot Pepper Seeds - Jalapeno Purple
Estimated delivery between February 05 and February 08.
The Jalapeno Purple is a unique and vibrant variety of the classic Jalapeno pepper, known for its striking purple color when immature, transitioning to red as it ripens. This pepper offers the same bold, spicy flavor as the traditional Jalapeno, but with an added visual appeal, making it a great addition to gardens and culinary dishes alike. Perfect for those who love the heat of Jalapenos but want a pepper with a bit of extra flair, the Jalapeno Purple is ideal for making salsas, sauces, and pickles.
Key Benefits
- Spicy Flavor: Offers a balanced heat level with a Scoville rating of 3,500–8,000, perfect for those who enjoy moderate spice.
- Striking Color: The immature purple color adds a unique touch to both the garden and your dishes.
- High Yield: Produces abundant peppers per plant, making it a great option for gardeners looking for a steady harvest.
- Versatile Use: Perfect for fresh use in salsas, pickling, or cooking, and can also be dried for chili powder.
- Cold Tolerant: Unlike some other hot peppers, Jalapeno Purple peppers can tolerate cooler temperatures, making them ideal for a wider range of climates.
Variety Features
- Plant Characteristics: Compact, bushy plants that typically reach 18–24 inches in height.
- Flavor Profile: Bold and spicy, with a smoky, earthy undertone typical of Jalapenos.
- Growth Habit: Grows upright, producing 2–3-inch-long peppers that ripen from purple to red.
- Size: The peppers are medium-sized, typically 2–3 inches long, with a thick flesh and a slightly wrinkled texture.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season
- Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last expected frost or directly sow outdoors after frost danger has passed.
- Best grown in warm conditions, ideally 70°F–85°F (21°C–29°C) during the growing season.
Planting Details
- Seed Depth: Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep.
- Spacing: Space plants 18–24 inches apart to allow for healthy growth.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0–6.8.
- Sunlight: Full sun is essential for strong growth and fruit production.
Care Instructions
Watering
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, aiming to provide around 1 inch of water per week.
- Water deeply, especially during dry spells, to encourage strong root development.
Fertilization
- Use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) at planting time and again when the plants begin to flower to support growth and fruit production.
- Avoid over-fertilizing, as too much nitrogen can result in excessive foliage growth rather than fruit production.
Weeding and Mulching
- Regularly remove weeds around the base of the plants to prevent competition for nutrients.
- Apply mulch to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain even soil temperatures.
Pest and Disease Control
- Pests: Watch for aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Use organic pest control methods such as insecticidal soap.
- Diseases: Jalapeno Purple peppers are susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Ensure good air circulation and practice crop rotation to reduce disease risk.
Harvesting
Maturity
- The peppers are typically ready for harvest 70–85 days after transplanting, depending on the growing conditions.
- Harvest when the peppers reach their full size and have turned from purple to a deep red color for the maximum heat and flavor.
Method
- Use scissors or pruning shears to cut the peppers from the plant, leaving a short stem attached. Handle carefully as the heat can linger on the skin.
Storage
- Short-Term: Fresh Jalapeno Purple peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Long-Term: Dry the peppers by hanging them in a cool, dry place, then store them in an airtight container. Alternatively, they can be frozen for later use in cooking or salsas.
Culinary Uses
- Salsas and Sauces: The medium heat and smoky flavor make Jalapeno Purple peppers a great base for salsas and hot sauces.
- Pickling: These peppers are ideal for pickling, adding a spicy kick to salads, sandwiches, and tacos.
- Chili and Stews: Add to chili or stews for a bold, smoky heat.
- Grilled or Roasted: Grill or roast the peppers to bring out their smoky flavor for a unique addition to any dish.
Conclusion
Jalapeno Purple peppers are a visually striking and flavorful addition to any garden or kitchen. With their unique color, moderate heat, and versatility in cooking, they provide a perfect balance of flavor and spice. Whether used fresh in salsas, pickled for preservation, or dried for seasoning, the Jalapeno Purple is an excellent choice for both new and experienced gardeners. This pepper variety is sure to elevate your culinary creations with its vibrant color and bold, smoky heat.