Jalepeno peppers are grown and later dried for use as chipotle peppers.
Chipotle is used in many Hispanic dishes, adding spice and heat to an otherwise mild meal. It is made from dried , and growing your own ensures you the freshest option available. As a warm season crop, peppers thrive in hot environments with an average daily temperature between 85 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Beginner vegetable gardeners, in addition to experienced growers, enjoy the relatively low maintenance of the crop as well as ease of cultivation. Jalapeno peppers also grow well in containers for those with limited gardening space, making them a suitable choice for balcony gardens.
Instructions
1. Purchase jalapeno pepper seeds from a local gardening center or seed catalog. Recommended varieties include Delicias, Firenza, Grande, Mucho Nacho, Tula and Sonora. Avoid using seeds stored longer than four years since they may not germinate.
2. Prepare the garden soil by working it until it becomes loose and well-draining. Add in organic matter or compost to the top layer of the soil for best results. Jalapenos prefer soil with a fine, sandy loam texture and pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Contact a local extension office to test your soil or for specific recommendations on improving growing conditions.
3. Plant jalapeno seeds directly into the soil 0.5 to 0.75 inch deep and approximately 14 to 18 inches apart in all directions. Transplants should be used if growing peppers in cooler environments. Do not plant until the threat of frost has passed. Night temperatures lower than 60 degrees Fahrenheit may stunt growth. Mulching with black plastic warms the soil and retains needed moisture during cool spells.
4. Water seeds and soil frequently to ensure adequate moisture for successful germination and fruit growth. Apply a fertilizer once true leaves appear and again once the first fruits set. Control weeds by lightly hoeing the ground to avoid competition for water and nutrients.
5. Harvest jalapeno peppers once they reach 2 to 2.5 inches long and fruit has become firm and a mature green. Jalapeno peppers are typically ready for harvest 70 days after sowing, although harvest dates may differ slightly depending on weather conditions and variety grown.
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