Pepper Seeds - Hot - Cayenne Espana F1

Download Free Vegetable Growing Guide PDF

Growing Cayenne Espana Hybrid Peppers in the Vegetable Garden

Begin your Cayenne Espana Hybrid seeds indoors. This should be done about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost in your area. Sow the seeds at approximately a quarter inch deep in a well-draining seed starting mix. Peppers need warmth to germinate, so ensure the soil temperature is consistently between 75-85 F. You can achieve this with a heat mat if necessary. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and provide plenty of light once seedlings emerge.

As the last frost date approaches and your seedlings have developed several true leaves, it’s time to start the hardening-off process. This involves gradually acclimatizing your plants to outdoor conditions. Begin by placing your pepper plants outside in a sheltered area for a few hours each day, gradually increasing their time outdoors over the course of a week. This step is crucial to prevent shock and to ensure your plants adapt well to their new environment.

Fertilization is another key component of growing healthy peppers. Start with a balanced fertilizer at the time of planting. Once your peppers start flowering, switch to a fertilizer higher in phosphorus and potassium to encourage fruiting. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for application rates. Once hardened off, transplant your Cayenne Espana Hybrid peppers into your garden or containers. Choose a sunny spot, as peppers thrive in full sun. Space the plants about 18-24 inches apart in nutrient-rich, well-drained soil. When transplanting, be careful not to disturb the roots too much, and plant them at the same depth they were growing in their pots.

Pepper plants require consistent moisture, especially as the fruits begin to form. Water regularly, allowing the soil to slightly dry out between waterings. Mulching around the plants will help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Harvesting Cayenne Espana Hybrid Peppers

Cayenne Espana Hybrid peppers are typically ready to harvest 70-80 days after transplanting. When they are harvested impacts their spice level; for a milder flavor, harvest when they are green. For full heat, wait until they turn red. To harvest, use garden shears or a sharp knife to cut the pepper from the plant, being careful not to damage the plant.

About Cayenne Espana Hybrid Pepper Garden Seeds

What makes the Cayenne Espana Hybrid particularly interesting is its adaptability to various growing conditions, including containers, making it an excellent choice for urban gardeners. This variety, bred for its yield and resistance to common pepper diseases, offers a reliable harvest even in less-than-ideal conditions.

An exciting recipe to try with your Cayenne Espana Hybrid peppers is a mild homemade hot sauce. Simply blend roasted peppers with garlic, vinegar, and salt for a condiment that will elevate any meal.

Their unique color makes them a fantastic choice for vibrant salsas or hot sauces. Try using these peppers in a fresh corn salsa to add a splash of color and flavor to grilled meats or tacos.

These peppers are relatively mild, ranking low on the Scoville scale (1,000-2,000 SHU), which puts them at the same level or milder than a mild jalapeno.

Keep an eye out for common pests such as aphids, spider mites, and pepper weevils. Regular inspections and prompt action are vital. Use insecticidal soaps or neem oil as effective organic options for controlling small infestations. Always follow the application instructions provided for any pest control product..

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Cayenne Espana is a great option if you like the flavor of Cayenne peppers but don’t want the spiciness. These have about 10% of the spiciness level as a normal Cayenne pepper but taste just as delicious."

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer