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Growing Organic Caribbean Red Habanero Hot Peppers in the Vegetable Garden
Begin by sowing Caribbean Red Habanero seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the anticipated last frost date in your region. Plant the seeds at a depth of 1/4 inch in an organic seed starting mix. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not saturated. Utilize a seed tray with a clear cover or a propagation kit to maintain high humidity levels, and place the tray in a warm area with temperatures between 75-85 F to encourage successful germination.
Once your seedlings reach about 2-3 inches in height with a few sets of true leaves, begin the hardening-off process. Gradually acclimate them to the outdoors by placing them outside for a few hours each day, increasing the duration over one to two weeks. This process helps the plants adjust to outdoor conditions and reduces transplant shock. Transplant the seedlings into your garden once the threat of frost has passed and nighttime temperatures remain above 55 F. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil that has been enriched with organic compost or well-rotted manure. Space the plants 18-24 inches apart, with rows 24-36 inches apart, to ensure adequate air circulation and growth space. Dig holes slightly larger than the root balls, place the seedlings in the holes, and fill in with soil, pressing gently to eliminate air pockets. Water thoroughly after transplanting.
For healthy growth and prolific fruiting, fertilize your peppers regularly using organic methods. Begin with an organic balanced fertilizer (such as a compost tea or a commercial organic 10-10-10 blend) at the time of transplanting. As the plants begin to flower, switch to an organic fertilizer higher in potassium and phosphorus (such as fish bone meal or seaweed extract). Apply the fertilizer according to the package instructions or your preferred organic gardening guide, typically every 4-6 weeks, to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit production.
Caribbean Red Habanero peppers thrive in rich, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Before planting, amend the soil with plenty of organic compost to enhance fertility and structure. These peppers require consistent moisture, so water deeply but allow the soil to dry slightly between watering sessions. Mulching around the plants with organic materials such as straw or leaves can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Harvesting Organic Caribbean Red Habanero Hot Peppers
Caribbean Red Habanero peppers are ready for harvest 100-120 days after transplanting. Harvest the peppers when they turn red. They should be shiny and firm. Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the peppers from the plant, leaving a small portion of the stem attached. Avoid pulling the peppers off by hand, as this can damage the plant.
They may be harvested before peak maturity if necessary, but they must already have begun to turn red on the plant; otherwise, they will not fully ripen.
About Caribbean Red Habanero Organic Hot Pepper Garden Seeds
This variety is perfect for making homemade hot sauces. With around 100,000 to 350,000 Scoville Heat Units, they are about as spicy as a typical habanero.
Handle with care to avoid skin irritation, especially when cutting or seeding the peppers. The capsaicin in the skin and seeds is what makes it spicy, but it can be an irritant if exposed to eyes or sensitive skin
Well suited to hot and humid climates, these peppers are also great candidates for container gardening.
Tips From Our Gardeners
"Pruning your plants can improve air circulation and reduce disease risk. Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves and consider pinching off the initial flower buds to help the plant establish a stronger root system. "
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- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer
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Other Resources
Caribbean Red Habanero Hot Pepper Seeds Per Package:
- 300 mg - Packet - Approximately 50 Seeds
- .25 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 1,500 Seeds
- 1 oz - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 6,000 Seeds
- 4 oz - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 24,000 Seeds
- 1 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 96,000 Seeds
- 5 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 480,000 Seeds
Non-GMO Caribbean Red Habanero Hot Pepper seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.
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ATTRIBUTES
Basic Info
Latin Name: |
Capsicum chinense
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Pepper Type: |
Hot - These peppers all have some heat and usually rank at least 100, but usually 500 or more on the Scoville scale and have heat ranging from mild to extremely hot.. |
Caribbean Red Pepper Color: |
Red |
Caribbean Red Pepper Flavor: |
A citrusy, slightly smoky flavor |
Growing Info
Hardiness Zone: |
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 Technically a tender perennial, but commonly grown as an annual. Perennial in zones 10 and 11. |
Days to Maturity: |
110-119 (from transplant) |
Days to Germination: |
7-10 |
Seeding Depth: |
0.25 inch |
Plant Spacing: |
12-18 inches |
Row Spacing: |
24-36 inches |
Plant Height: |
18-24 inches |
Growth Habit: |
Upright |
Soil Preference: |
Well-draining, loose (sandy loam), slightly acidic (6.5 pH), and moisture retaining. Too much nitrogen in the soil may lead to more foliage production and less fruiting, similar to tomatoes. Peppers also need sufficient amounts of phosphorus and calcium. We recommend using a balanced fertilizer for the best results. |
Temperature Preference: |
Warmer (70-85 F). During high heat, foliar and flower development slow or pause until temperatures return to the preferred range. |
Light Preference: |
Full Sun |
Other
Direct Sow: |
No |
Start Indoors: |
Yes. Start Indoors 6-8 weeks before your last spring frost date. Harden off and transplant when seedlings are 6-8 inches tall. Bury the stem slightly deeper than the root ball. Avoid planting hot and sweet peppers right next to each other, as they can cross-pollinate, potentially affecting the flavors of your harvested peppers. |
Pepper Pollination: |
Peppers have perfect flowers (male and female parts) and will self-pollinate. However, wind and pollinator activity may increase success rates of fertilization and fruit production. |
Plant Width: |
12-18 inches |
Deer Resistant: |
Yes |
Scoville Heat Units: |
100,000 to 350,000 |
Heat Level: |
Extra Hot - 100,000 to 300,000 on the Scoville Scale. Example: Most Habaneros |
Growth Speed: |
Late - Ready for harvest around 91 days or more from transplant. |
Germination Temperature: |
80-90 F |
Pests and Diseases: |
Peppers are commonly susceptible to cutworms, aphids, flea beetles, bacterial spot, Phytophthora, sunscald, and blossom end rot. To avoid or reduce problems with pests and diseases, stick to a regular watering schedule (drip irrigation is preferred), plant into well-draining soils, and utilize practices such as crop rotation. When taking pest control measures, consider utilizing integrated pest management principles by using mechanical removal, biological control, and other cultural practices before turning to chemical agents. |
Garden Size: |
Greenhouse, Garden Plot, Raised Bed, Container |
Pepper Use: |
Perfect for sauces or salsas. |
Climate Tolerance: |
Heat, Drought |