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Habanero

Capsicum chinense

$3.99

300 mg Approximately

The Habanero Pepper (Capsicum annuum) is one of the hottest pepper varieties, known for its intense heat and distinct, smoky flavor. Ripening from green to a brilliant red or orange, these peppers have a wrinkled texture and typically measure 1.5 inches long by 1.25 inches wide. The habanero pepper is ideal for hot sauces, salsas, and adding fiery spice to various dishes.

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1467 in stock

  • Days to Germination: 10-21 days
  • Days to Maturity: Approximately 95-100 days
  • Height: 18-24 inches
  • Spacing: 12-18 inches apart, rows 24-36 inches apart
  • Soil Requirements: Well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.5, enriched with phosphorus and calcium
  • Optimal Soil Temperature: 80-85°F for germination

Starting Indoors:

  • Timing: Begin seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost.
  • Sowing: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting formula, keeping the soil consistently moist at 75°F.
  • Lighting: Provide 16 hours of light per day, either from a sunny window or fluorescent lights.
  • Transplanting: Transplant outdoors when temperatures are consistently 60°F or above, spacing plants 12-18 inches apart.
  • Use black plastic mulch to warm the soil and reduce weeds.

Cold Treatment (Optional):

  • Expose seedlings to 53-55°F night temperatures for 4 weeks after the third true leaf appears to encourage more flowers and fruits.

Growing Tips

  • Mulching: Mulch around plants to retain soil moisture, prevent weeds, and stabilize soil temperature.
  • Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during flowering. However, limit water when fruits start to develop for more intense heat.
  • Pests: Use pyrethrin to control pests like cutworms, aphids, and flea beetles.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvest: Pick peppers at any stage, but full flavor and heat develop at maturity when peppers turn bright red. Cut with a sharp knife, leaving part of the stem attached.
  • Storage: Store fresh peppers at 45°F and 95% relative humidity. For long-term storage, string and dry mature red peppers in a cool, dry, airy space. Dried peppers retain their heat and can be used as needed.

Culinary Uses and Safety

Habaneros are excellent for sauces, seasoning, and salsas. Due to their high heat, it’s essential to handle habaneros with gloves, and avoid touching your face or eyes. Dried habaneros make a striking and practical kitchen decoration, providing easy access to spice all year round.