Download Free Vegetable Growing Guide PDF

Growing Tabasco Peppers in the Vegetable Garden

Begin by sowing Tabasco pepper seeds indoors about 8 to 10 weeks before the last expected frost. Plant the seeds approximately 0.25 inches deep in a well-draining seed-starting mix. Maintain a consistent soil temperature between 70 F and 85 F to encourage germination, typically within 9 to 14 days. Place the seed trays in a location that receives ample light, such as a sunny windowsill or under grow lights. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Using a humidity dome or plastic cover can help retain moisture during the germination phase. As soon as the seedlings sprout, remove the humidity dome. Once the seedlings have true leaves, fertilize with a low-strength liquid feed.

About two weeks before transplanting outdoors, begin the hardening-off process. Gradually expose the seedlings to outdoor conditions by placing them outside for a few hours each day, increasing the duration over time. This acclimates the plants to temperature fluctuations and sunlight, reducing transplant shock. Once the danger of frost has passed and nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 50 F, transplant the seedlings into the garden. Choose a location with full sun and well-draining soil, ideally with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. Space the plants about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm) apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth.

Tabasco peppers require consistent moisture. Water the plants regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not saturated. Mulching around the base can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks. Begin with a balanced fertilizer during the early growth stages. As the plants start to flower and set fruit, switch to a fertilizer higher in phosphorus and potassium to promote blooming and fruit development. Avoid excessive nitrogen.

Harvesting Tabasco Peppers

Tabasco peppers mature approximately 80 days after transplanting. The fruits transition from green to yellow, then orange, and finally bright red when fully ripe. For the best flavor and heat, harvest the peppers when they are fully red. Use scissors or pruning shears to cut the peppers from the plant, leaving a small portion of the stem attached.

About Tabasco Pepper Garden Seeds

Tabasco peppers are classified as hot, with a Scoville rating between 30,000 and 50,000 SHU. This level of heat is significant but not overwhelming, making them versatile in various culinary applications.

Beyond their role in hot sauce, these peppers can be used fresh in salsas, pickled, or dried and ground into chili powder. Their unique juiciness sets them apart from many other hot peppers, providing a distinctive flavor and texture in dishes.

Tabasco peppers are originally from Mexico, specifically the state of Tabasco, where they get their name. It gained international fame in the 19th century when Edmund McIlhenny began producing his signature sauce in Louisiana.

For container gardening, be sure to choose a container at least 12 inches in diameter with good drainage. Pay special attention to container-grown plants as they often need more water and fertilization than in-ground plants.

One of the most distinctive features of the Tabasco pepper is its juiciness. Unlike many other chili peppers, which are dry inside, Tabasco peppers have a high moisture content, contributing to their unique flavor and making them ideal for hot sauce production.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Pepper plants are very cold-sensitive. Wait to plant your seedlings outside until all risk of frost has passed! This is often a week or two later than you plant out many other plants in the spring."

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer