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Growing NuMex Twilight Peppers in the Vegetable Garden

Begin by sowing the pepper seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your area's last expected frost date. Plant the seeds about 0.25 inch deep in a damp, sterile seed-starting mix. Maintain a consistent soil temperature between 65 F and 85 F, using a heat mat if necessary, to encourage germination. Provide ample light using grow lights positioned close to the seedlings to prevent leggy growth.​

Once seedlings develop their second or third set of true leaves, usually around 3 to 4 weeks after germination, transplant them into larger pots to accommodate root growth. Continue to provide sufficient light and maintain indoor temperatures until outdoor conditions are suitable.​

Before moving plants outdoors, harden them off for 1-2 weeks. Start by placing the seedlings outside in a sheltered location for an hour, gradually increasing their exposure to sunlight and outdoor conditions each day. This process helps the plants acclimate and reduces transplant shock.​

Transplant the hardened-off seedlings into the garden, raised beds, or containers once nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 50 F and the risk of frost has passed. Choose a location with full sun exposure and well-draining soil. Space plants 12 to 24 inches apart (or one per pot). Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter and has a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.​

Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, aiming to soak the soil to a depth of 6 inches. Avoid overhead watering.​ Once plants are established, apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer every 2 to 3 weeks to promote fruit development without excessive foliage growth.

Harvesting Nu Mex Twilight Peppers

NuMex Twilight peppers undergo a striking color transformation as they mature, transitioning from purple to yellow, orange, and finally red. While the peppers can be harvested at any stage, they reach peak flavor and heat when fully red. Harvesting typically takes place between 85 and 120 days after transplanting. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the peppers from the plant, leaving a short stem attached to the fruit. Regular harvesting encourages continued fruit production throughout the growing season.​

About Nu Mex Twilight Pepper Garden Seeds

Developed by the Agriculture Experimentation Station at New Mexico State University, NuMex Twilight peppers are a hybrid of the Thai ornamental pepper. They were bred for their ornamental value, featuring compact growth and a stunning array of fruit colors that progress through the spectrum as they mature.

This unique color progression often results in a single plant displaying multiple fruit colors simultaneously, creating a striking visual effect.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"I love having ornamental pepper plants such as the NuMex Twilight as patio table centerpieces. They add so much visual interest to a space!"

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer