Jalapeño Hot Peppers

America's favorite hot pepper – the versatile Jalapeño brings medium heat and fresh, bright flavor to everything from nachos to poppers. These thick-walled peppers ripen from dark green to red and deliver a perfect balance of 2,500-8,000 Scoville units that adds excitement without overwhelming.

Growing Information

• Days to maturity: 70-85 days from transplant (green), 90-100 days (red ripe)
• Planting: Start indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost; transplant when nighttime temps stay above 55°F
• Spacing: 14-18 inches apart in rows 24-30 inches apart
• Sun: Full sun (6-8 hours daily)
• Zones: 3-11 (warm-season annual)

Harvest & Use

Pick when peppers are firm, glossy, and 3-4 inches long. Harvest green for classic jalapeño flavor or wait for red ripening for sweeter, fruitier heat. Excellent fresh in salsas and salads, stuffed and grilled for poppers, pickled for nachos, or smoked to create chipotle peppers. Prolific plants produce 25-35 peppers per season.

Care Tips

Jalapeños prefer rich, well-drained soil with consistent watering – avoid water stress which can increase heat levels unpredictably. Mulch to maintain even soil moisture and temperature. Support plants with small stakes as they reach 24-30 inches tall. Companion plant with carrots, onions, or spinach for optimal garden health.

Why Choose Jalapeño

This reliable, high-yielding variety is perfect for gardeners of all experience levels. Heat-tolerant and adaptable to various climates, Jalapeños are the gateway pepper for those exploring homegrown hot peppers and an essential staple for any kitchen garden focused on fresh, flavorful cooking.