So, you’ve got your hands on one of our Carolina Reaper seedlings—congratulations! This pepper isn’t just hot; it’s one of the hottest in the world, with a Scoville rating reaching 2.2 million SHU. To ensure your plant thrives and produces fiery, flavorful peppers, follow this step-by-step care guide.
Transplanting Your Carolina Reaper Seedling
Carolina Reaper seedlings need to be transplanted properly for strong root development and a healthy growing season. Here’s how to do it:
When to Transplant
- Wait until nighttime temperatures are consistently above 60°F and daytime temperatures are at least 70°F before transplanting outdoors.
- If growing in a container, choose a 3-5 gallon pot with drainage holes.
How to Transplant
- Choose the Right Spot: Pick a sunny location—Carolina Reapers need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Prepare the Soil: Use well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a pH between 6.0-6.8. Adding compost helps retain moisture.
- Dig the Hole: Make a hole slightly larger than the seedling’s root ball.
- Gently Remove the Seedling: Avoid disturbing the roots. If it’s root-bound, lightly loosen the roots before placing it in the hole.
- Backfill & Water: Cover the roots with soil, press gently, and water immediately to reduce transplant shock.
Ongoing Carolina Reaper Plant Care
Once your seedling is transplanted, follow these essential care tips to keep it thriving:
1. Sunlight & Temperature
🌞 Sunlight: Full sun, at least 6-8 hours daily.
🌡 Temperature: Best growth occurs between 70-85°F. Protect plants from cold temperatures below 50°F.
2. Watering
💧 Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Overwatering can cause root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry before watering again.
3. Fertilization
🥦 Use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10 or 5-10-10). Avoid too much nitrogen, as it promotes leaves over fruit.
4. Pruning & Support
✂️ Pinch off early flowers to encourage strong root and leaf growth before fruiting.
🪴 Use stakes or cages for support, as mature plants can reach 3-4 feet tall.
5. Time to Harvest
⏳ Carolina Reapers take 90-120 days to ripen. They are ready when they turn bright red with a wrinkled, bumpy surface.
Handling & Using Carolina Reapers 🥵🔥
These peppers are extremely hot! Always:
✅ Wear gloves when handling.
✅ Wash hands thoroughly and avoid touching your face or eyes.
Ways to Use Carolina Reapers:
🌶 Hot Sauces & Salsas – Mollypop Farms’ Strawberry Reaper
🌶 Spicy Chili & Stews – Adds intense flavor.
🌶 Drying & Grinding – Create homemade pepper powder for seasoning.
🌶 Infused Oils – Perfect for spicing up marinades.
Final Thoughts
Carolina Reapers require warmth, sunlight, and patience, but with proper care, they will reward you with a bountiful harvest of fiery hot peppers. Whether you’re growing them for personal use or selling them at the market, following these care instructions will help your plants thrive.
