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Growing Alma Paprika Peppers in the Vegetable Garden

When starting Alma Paprika peppers, timing is key. These peppers typically require a longer growing season, so starting seeds indoors is recommended about two months before the last expected frost. Use a sterile seed starting mix in small pots or trays, planting seeds at about a quarter-inch depth. Peppers need warmth to germinate, so maintaining a soil temperature of 70-85 F (21-29 C) will help ensure a good start.

Peppers are slower growers than other plants like tomatoes. Do not be alarmed if your pepper seedlings take much longer than your other plants to get true leaves. It is not uncommon for peppers and tomatoes to sprout at the same time, but then the peppers will stall for a couple of weeks before continuing development.

Once the seedlings have developed a couple of true leaves and the outside temperatures consistently stay above 50 F (10 C) at night, they are ready to be hardened off. Gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions over a week to prevent shock. Transplant the seedlings into well-draining soil in a sunny spot, spacing them about 18-24 inches apart to give each plant ample room to grow. Incorporating a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (or organic compost) during planting can provide them with the necessary nutrients for a strong start.

Throughout the growing season, maintaining consistent soil moisture is vital, especially once the plants start flowering and fruiting. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Regular feeding with a phosphorus-rich fertilizer can encourage more prolific fruit production. Alma Paprika peppers do well with companion planting; good companions include basil, which can help repel harmful pests, and onions, which can deter many insects.

Harvesting Alma Paprika Peppers

Alma Paprika peppers are unique in their harvesting flexibility. They can be harvested once they reach a creamy white stage when they are milder in flavor or mature to a bright red, enhancing their sweetness and heat. The timing for harvesting typically ranges from 70 to 85 days after transplanting. To harvest, gently cut the peppers from the plants with a sharp knife or scissors to avoid damaging the plant. Regular harvesting encourages the plant to produce more fruit throughout the season.

The dual nature of the Alma Paprika allows for a wide range of culinary uses. Fresh peppers can be sliced into salads, stuffed, or grilled. For those who enjoy making homemade spices, drying and grinding red-ripe Alma Paprika peppers can yield a flavorful paprika powder. Their thick walls also make them excellent candidates for pickling.

About Alma Paprika Pepper Garden Seeds

Originating from Hungary, the Alma Paprika Pepper is traditionally used in making paprika powder, providing a slightly spicy (2,000-3,000 Scoville Heat Units) and sweet flavor profile. It was bred for its thick flesh and robust flavor, making it ideal for drying and grinding.

What makes this variety particularly appealing is its dual purpose: it can be used fresh or dried, offering flexibility in kitchen use.

Alma Paprika Hot Pepper’s round, slightly flattened shape (similar to a medium-sized tomato) with beautiful, creamy, orange, and bright red ripening stages add ornamental value to kitchen gardens.

The Alma Paprika is also well-suited for container gardening, making it an excellent option for those with limited space.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Dry these peppers and use them whole to flavor sauces or use a spice or coffee grinder to add unique, homegrown paprika powder to seasoning mixes."

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer