Growing Biquinho Red Peppers in the Vegetable Garden
Biquinho peppers should be started indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. Sow the seeds at a depth of approximately .25 inches in a seed-starting mix. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and ensure they're in a warm spot or use a heat mat to maintain a soil temperature of around 80-85 F, which is ideal for germination.
The seedlings must be hardened off before transplanting outdoors to adapt to outdoor conditions. This process involves gradually exposing the plants to outdoor temperatures and sunlight over a period of 7-10 days. Start by placing them outside in a shaded, protected area for a few hours each day, gradually increasing their exposure to direct sunlight and outdoor temperatures.
Once all danger of frost has passed, and the seedlings are well-hardened off, transplant them to your garden or a container. Space the plants about 18-24 inches apart in a sunny location with well-draining soil. Biquinho peppers do well in containers, making them versatile for those with limited space. Ensure you provide at least 5 gallons of soil that is at least 12” deep so as not to stunt growth.
Regular watering is crucial, especially when they are newly planted and during dry spells. Keep the soil consistently moist but ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Allowing the soil to dry between waterings after its roots are established can actually encourage a more robust root system. Be careful not to stress the plants from lack of water.
Feed your Biquinho peppers every two weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Starting a month after transplanting, you can also use a phosphorus-rich fertilizer to encourage good flowering and fruit development.
Common pests like aphids and spider mites can be managed with regular inspections and prompt action. Natural remedies can be effective, such as spraying with a soap and water solution or attracting beneficial insects like ladybugs. Always avoid harsh chemicals, especially as harvest approaches.
Harvesting Biquinho Red Peppers
Biquinho peppers are usually ready to harvest 90-100 days after transplanting. They ripen from green to a vibrant red when fully mature. Harvesting can be done by snipping the peppers off the plant with scissors or pruners to avoid damaging the delicate branches. The mildness of these peppers, despite being a 'hot' variety, means they can be picked slightly earlier if a milder flavor is preferred.
About Biquinho Red Pepper Garden Seeds
These peppers can also be called Little Beak Peppers due to their teardrop shape.
Incredibly ornamental and utilitarian, these peppers are the best of both worlds. Enjoy the gorgeous peppers on the plant as a centerpiece or garden member, and then harvest them and make pickled peppers, salsa, dried pepper powder, and more.
Originating from Brazil, Biquinho peppers are cherished in South American cuisine for their distinct flavor and are often used as garnishes.
These peppers are relatively mild, ranking low on the Scoville scale (500-1,000 SHU), which measures the pungency of chili peppers. This makes them an excellent choice for adding a hint of spice without overwhelming the dish.
One unique recipe for Biquinho peppers is to make a Biquinho pepper jelly, which can be an excellent accompaniment to cheeses or grilled meats. Their mild heat also makes them perfect for infusing vinegar or oil to create flavored condiments.
Stories From Our Gardeners
"My pepper seedlings seemed to grow so slowly this year, and I was worried about planting them out. However, it seemed like as soon as I planted them out with a bit of organic fertilizer in a nice, full sun spot, they took off!"
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- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer |
Other Resources
Biquinho Red Pepper Seeds Per Package:
300 mg - Wholesale - Approximately 52 Seeds
0.25 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 1,250 Seeds
1 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 5,000 Seeds
4 oz - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 20,000 Seeds
1 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 80,000 Seeds
Non-GMO Biquinho Red Pepper seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.>
ATTRIBUTES
Basic Info
Latin Name: |
Capsicum chinense
|
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. |
Biquinho Red Pepper Color: |
Red |
Growing Info
Hardiness Zone: |
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 Technically a tender perennial, but commonly grown as an annual. Perennial in zones 10 and 11. |
Days to Maturity: |
90-95 (from transplant) |
Days to Germination: |
7-10 |
Seeding Depth: |
0.25 inch |
Plant Spacing: |
18 to 24 inches |
Row Spacing: |
24 to 36 inches |
Plant Height: |
18 to 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 7-9 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: |
18 to 24 inches |
Deer Resistant: |
No |
Scoville Heat Units: |
500 to 1,000 |
Heat Level: |
Mild - 100 to 2,500 on the Scoville Scale. Example: Poblano Ancho or Pepperoncini |
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 |