Hot Pepper Seeds,
Jalapeño TAM

Start seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before the last frost to give plants the long growing season they need. Once outdoor temperatures consistently stay above 65 F, transplant seedlings to the garden. In warmer regions, direct sowing in late spring is also possible. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

Indoors, sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in a quality seed-starting mix, maintaining soil temperatures of 80-85 F for prompt germination, which usually takes 7-10 days. Harden seedlings gradually by exposing them to outdoor conditions before transplanting them 14-18 inches apart in well-drained soil with full sunlight.

Water consistently, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Apply a balanced fertilizer at transplanting, and switch to a high-phosphorus type when flowering begins to enhance fruit production. With at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily, plants will produce best. Use stakes or cages to support branches as they grow heavier with peppers.

• Peppers are mainly self-pollinating, but bees occasionally work pepper flowers as well.
• To be absolutely sure that you will not have any crossing, different varieties should be isolated by at least 500 feet.
• To save seed, allow the fruit to mature fully; then simply remove seeds.
• It is a good idea to wear gloves when working with very hot peppers, and to consider wearing a mask when working with a large quantity of dried seeds.
• Let seeds dry for a week before storing them in a jar.
• Pepper seeds will remain viable for up to 5 years.