Jalapeño peppers are a garden favorite, loved for their medium heat and versatility in cooking. They’re perfect for salsas, stuffed appetizers, and spicy condiments. If you’ve picked up jalapeño seedlings from Mollypop Farms, here’s how to care for them and get the most out of your harvest!
Caring for Jalapeño Peppers 🌱
🌞 Sunlight: Jalapeños thrive in full sun and need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. More sun = more peppers!
🌱 Soil: Well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a pH between 6.0-6.8 is ideal.
💧 Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, and avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent disease.
🌡️ Temperature: Jalapeños love warm weather! They grow best in temperatures between 70°F-85°F and don’t tolerate frost.
✂️ Pruning & Support: While not required, pruning lower leaves can improve airflow and reduce disease risk. If plants get heavy with fruit, staking can help keep them upright.
Harvesting Jalapeños 🌶️
Jalapeños are ready to pick in 70-85 days from transplant when they are firm, glossy, and about 3 inches long. They start green and can ripen to red if left on the plant, developing a slightly sweeter, smokier flavor.
For continuous production, harvest peppers regularly—this encourages the plant to keep producing!
Delicious Ways to Use Jalapeños 🍽️
Jalapeños bring a mild to medium heat that enhances countless dishes. Try them in:
🔥 Salsa & Pico de Gallo – Fresh, zesty, and packed with flavor!
🧀 Jalapeño Poppers – Stuff with cheese, wrap in bacon, and bake or fry.
🥗 Pickled Jalapeños – A tangy topping for tacos, burgers, and nachos.
🍗 Marinades & Sauces – Adds a spicy kick to meats and BBQ sauces.
🌮 Mexican & Tex-Mex Dishes – Chop fresh jalapeños into tacos, burritos, or guacamole.
🌿 Infused Oils & Honey – Create a unique sweet-heat combination.
Spice Up Your Garden with Jalapeños! 🌶️
Jalapeños are an easy, rewarding pepper to grow with the right care. Whether you enjoy them fresh, pickled, or roasted, they add the perfect heat to any dish. Pick up your jalapeño seedlings from Mollypop Farms and get growing today!
