Small Jim peppers are a mild, yet flavorful chili variety that adds just the right amount of warmth to dishes without overwhelming heat. With their compact size, thin walls, and vibrant red color, these peppers are perfect for fresh eating, pickling, or drying into mild chili flakes. If you’ve picked up Small Jim pepper seedlings from Mollypop Farms, here’s how to care for them and enjoy their delicious, subtle heat!
Caring for Small Jim Pepper Plants 🌱
🌞 Sunlight: These peppers need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit production.
🌱 Soil: Use well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8. Adding compost helps promote healthy growth.
💧 Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, but avoid overwatering. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
🌡️ Temperature: Small Jim peppers thrive in warm temperatures (70°F-85°F) and should be protected from frost.
✂️ Pruning & Support: These plants grow 2-3 feet tall. Pruning lower leaves improves airflow, and light staking may help support fruit-heavy branches.
Harvesting Small Jim Peppers 🌶️
Small Jim peppers can be harvested when they turn a bright red, usually 70-80 days after transplanting. They can also be picked while still green for a slightly different flavor.
Since they have thin walls, they dry easily, making them excellent for preserving as mild chili flakes or smoky dried peppers.
Delicious Ways to Use Small Jim Peppers 🍽️
With their low heat and slightly sweet, smoky flavor, Small Jim peppers are perfect for adding just a touch of spice to meals. Try them in:
🥗 Fresh in Salads – Slice raw Small Jim peppers into salads for a mild kick.
🥒 Pickled Peppers – Their small size makes them perfect for pickling—great on sandwiches and tacos!
🌶️ Stuffed Peppers – Fill with cheese, meats, or grains for a flavorful, bite-sized dish.
🔥 Mild Chili Powder – Dry and grind into a mild, smoky chili powder for seasoning.
🍲 Soups & Stews – Adds depth to broths and slow-cooked dishes without overwhelming heat.
🫒 Pepper-Infused Oil – Steep dried Small Jim peppers in olive oil for a flavorful, mild chili oil.
A Mild & Versatile Pepper for Your Garden! 🌱🌶️
If you love flavorful peppers without intense heat, Small Jim is a fantastic choice! These easy-to-grow, mild chili peppers are perfect for fresh eating, pickling, and drying. Pick up your Small Jim pepper seedlings from Mollypop Farms and enjoy homegrown peppers all season long!
