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Growing Cherry Mini Hot Hybrid Peppers in the Vegetable Garden

Ideally, these seeds should be started indoors about 6-8 weeks before your area's last expected frost date. This gives the seedlings ample time to develop a robust root system and strong stems before they face the elements outdoors. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining, starting mix at approximately a quarter-inch depth. Keeping the soil consistently moist and at a temperature of about 80 F will help ensure optimal germination.

Once the seedlings emerge thin them only to have one seedling per cell or per 1-inch square if using a tray. Avoid pulling any seedlings out but instead cut them off at the soil level to not disturb the roots of the desired seedling. When they develop their second set of true leaves, they can be transplanted into larger pots to avoid crowding and to encourage stronger growth. Next, harden off the seedlings gradually. This step is crucial as it helps in acclimating the plants to stronger light and more variable temperatures gradually.

After the risk of frost has passed and your seedlings are robust, it’s time to transplant them outdoors. Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Amending your garden soil with compost not only improves soil structure but also adds essential nutrients, which are vital for pepper growth. When transplanting, space the plants about 18-24 inches apart to give each plant enough room to mature fully.

Mulching around the base of each plant with organic materials such as straw or leaf mold can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Regular watering, especially during dry spells, is crucial to prevent stress, which can affect fruit quality and yield. Additionally, an occasional application of fish emulsion or compost tea can promote vigorous growth and bountiful yields.

Pruning is not typically necessary for Cherry Mini Hot peppers, but removing wilted or dead leaves and small, weak branches can help improve air circulation and focus the plant’s energy on producing fruits rather than maintaining unnecessary foliage.

Harvesting Cherry Mini Hot Hybrid Peppers

The peppers are ready to harvest when they reach about a half inch in diameter and a full, deep scarlet color. They will resemble cherry tomatoes. The peppers can be gently twisted off the plant or cut with a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears. Harvesting regularly encourages the plant to produce more fruit throughout the season.

About Cherry Mini Hot Hybrid Pepper Garden Seeds

This pepper variety is known for its vibrant red color and a round, cherry-like appearance. They pack a medium punch in terms of heat (4,000-6,000 Scoville), firmly categorizing them as a hot pepper variety.

Cherry Mini Hot Hybrid peppers were bred for their distinct size and heat profile, combining the appealing look of cherry tomatoes with the fiery punch of traditional hot peppers.

This variety is particularly well-suited for containers due to its relatively compact growth habit. Ensure your containers are at least 12 inches deep (minimum 5 gallons of soil) and have good drainage to keep the roots healthy and prevent waterlogging.

The bright and fruity flavor complements their fiery heat. The heat level is considerable but not overwhelming, making them a favorite for those who appreciate a good spice without it being too intense.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"When hardening off seedlings and while they are in the garden for the first few weeks, monitor the temperature like a hawk! Especially at night. Pepper plants do not handle cold well, and they should be brought inside or covered up if temperatures dip below 45 F."

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer