Pantera F1 (Treated) Jalapeno Pepper 10 Seeds Free Shipping!
Peppers do best in well-drained, nutrient-rich soils with a pH level of 6.5. For optimal growth, ensure there's plenty of phosphorus and calcium. To protect against cold weather and promote early growth, use black plastic mulch, especially when paired with lightweight fabric row covers held up by wire hoops. On sunny days when temperatures exceed 85°F (29°C), be sure to remove the row covers to avoid blossom drop and heat damage.
DAYS TO MATURITY:
This refers to the estimated time from when you transplant outdoors until you can harvest full-sized fruit.
TRANSPLANTING:
Start by sowing seeds in 20-row or shallow flats, placing 4 seeds per inch and 1/4" deep, around late March or roughly 8 weeks before you plan to transplant. If you can, keep the soil temperature between 80-90°F (27-32°C) since pepper seeds take their time to germinate in cooler soil. Once the first true leaves show up, move the seedlings into 2" cell-type containers or 4" pots. Grow the plants at about 70°F (21°C) during the day and 60°F (16°C) at night. Transplant them after the frost when the soil is warm and the weather is stable. Ideal seedlings should have buds but no open flowers. Space the pepper plants 12-18" apart in rows that are 24-36" apart, or set up 2 rows on poly/paper mulch with 18" between plants. Water the transplants with a high phosphorus solution.
COLD TREATMENT:
Giving seedlings controlled cold treatments can boost the number of flowers and fruits. When the third true leaf appears, keep the plants at a minimum night temperature of 53-55°F (12-13°C) for 4 weeks, ensuring they get full sunlight. After this period, raise the temperature to 70°F (21°C) both day and night. If you go this route, start seeding the peppers 1-2 weeks earlier than you normally would.
INSECT PESTS:
To manage climbing cutworms, use Bacillus thuringiensis or paper cylinder collars. For tarnished plant bugs, aphids, and flea beetles, apply pyrethrin.
DISEASES AND PROBLEMS:
To avoid bacterial spot and Phytophthora, only use drip irrigation, plant in well-drained soils, reduce soil compaction, and stick to a 4-year crop rotation. Sunscald happens when there's not enough foliage canopy. To prevent blossom end rot, ensure proper care.
