Sweet Pepper Seeds - Corno di Toro Rosso

Corno di Toro Rosso is a flavorful, Italian heirloom variety known for its unique shape and vibrant color. These peppers, named after their "bull's horn" appearance, grow long and curved, offering a sweet, mild flavor that’s perfect for grilling, roasting, or adding to fresh salads. The thick walls of the Corno di Toro Rosso make them an excellent choice for stuffing, while their rich red color adds a pop of brightness to any dish. This variety thrives in warm climates and produces abundant yields throughout the growing season.

Key Benefits

• Mild Sweet Flavor: Corno di Toro Rosso peppers offer a sweet, mild flavor without the heat of traditional hot peppers.
• Unique Shape: Known for their distinct, elongated, curved shape, resembling a bull's horn.
• High Yield: Produces a large number of peppers per plant, making it an excellent choice for gardeners looking for abundant harvests.
• Versatile in the Kitchen: Great for grilling, roasting, stuffing, and using in salads or sandwiches.
• Beautiful Appearance: The bright red color adds visual appeal to any garden or dish.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Tall, sturdy plants that can reach up to 30 inches in height, with long, curved peppers that grow to 8–10 inches in length.
• Flavor Profile: Sweet, mild, and juicy with thick, crunchy walls.
• Growth Habit: Plants grow upright with dense foliage, and the peppers are typically produced in clusters.
• Size: Each pepper is about 8–10 inches long and 2–3 inches wide, with a smooth, glossy red skin when ripe.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last frost, or plant outdoors once the danger of frost has passed and the temperatures are consistently warm.
• Best grown in temperatures between 70°F–85°F (21°C–29°C).

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep.
• Spacing: Space plants 18–24 inches apart, allowing room for their large growth habit.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0. Enrich soil with compost or organic matter for best results.
• Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth, with at least 6–8 hours of sunlight per day.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid overwatering. Water the plants deeply at the base to encourage strong root development.
• Water consistently during dry spells to prevent stress, especially during fruit development.

Fertilization

• Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at planting time and again when the plants are about 6 inches tall.
• Once fruiting begins, switch to a fertilizer with lower nitrogen to encourage better fruit set and growth.

Weeding and Mulching

• Regularly remove weeds from around the plants to reduce competition for nutrients and water.
• Use mulch to retain moisture, keep the soil cool, and suppress weed growth.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and flea beetles. Use organic pest control methods like insecticidal soap or neem oil to protect your peppers.
• Diseases: Watch out for fungal diseases such as powdery mildew. Ensure good air circulation and practice crop rotation to prevent soil-borne diseases.

Harvesting

Maturity

• Corno di Toro Rosso peppers typically take about 75–80 days from transplanting to reach full maturity.
• Harvest when the peppers have fully ripened to a bright red color for the best flavor and texture.

Method

• Use pruning shears or scissors to cut the peppers from the plant, ensuring you do not damage the stems. Handle gently to avoid bruising.

Storage

• Short-Term: Fresh peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1–2 weeks.
• Long-Term: For longer storage, you can freeze the peppers after blanching, or dry them for use in cooking and making chili flakes.

Culinary Uses

• Grilled or Roasted: Slice and grill or roast for a smoky, sweet addition to salads, sandwiches, or as a side dish.
• Stuffed: These peppers are perfect for stuffing with rice, meat, or cheese and baking.
• Salsas and Sauces: Add sweetness to your homemade salsas and sauces, or use in roasted pepper dips.
• Salads: Thinly slice fresh Corno di Toro Rosso peppers and add them to salads for a refreshing, mild crunch.

Conclusion

Corno di Toro Rosso peppers are a beautiful and delicious addition to any garden. Their sweet, mild flavor, coupled with their striking appearance, makes them a favorite for gardeners and cooks alike. Whether you’re grilling, stuffing, or making fresh salads, these peppers will add a unique touch to your culinary creations. Easy to grow and high-yielding, they are perfect for gardeners of all skill levels.