How to grow jalapenos - Hot peppers have increased in
popularity as garden plants and as necessary cooking ingredients. Jalapeno peppers (Capsicum annum) rank as
among the most common and widely grown of hot pepper varieties.
There are many reasons why it's a good idea to grow jalapeno peppers in a raised bed. However, along with every benefit comes a need for taking a few extra steps to ensure that plants grow strong, lush and produce a large crop. When planting in a raised bed, give jalapenos enough space, nutrients, sun and water and take a few precautions to prevent disease.
How to Grow Jalapenos
Spacing is Crucial in a Raised Bed
How to grow jalapenos
step 1 - Jalapeno peppers grow at their best when they're allotted the
right amount of space to call their own. With that being said, it's important
to choose a raised bed that can accommodate rows of peppers spaced 2-to-3 feet
apart, and plants spaced 14 to 16 inches apart. The depth of the raised bed is
important, too. Pepper plants benefit from sturdy, supported stems. Jalapeno
plants need room to spread and anchor their roots.
Amend the Soil before Planting Peppers
How to grow jalapenos
step 2 - Before transplanting seedlings into a raised bed, amend the soil
by adding humus or finished compost. Humus and compost, both products of
decomposed organic matter, are rich in nutrients and help soil retain its
moisture. Well fed jalapeno peppers usually grow tall, strong and healthy,
enabling them to produce high yields of peppers.
Positioning Raised Beds in Full Sun
How to grow jalapenos
step 3 - Jalapeno peppers love the sun and thrive when they receive 6 to 8
hours of direct sunlight a day. When deciding on where to position the raised
bed, place it in an area that receives full sun. Keep in mind that there are
natural, sun-blocking barriers that may creep up as the growing season moves
along. Leaves, vines, trees and shrubs can all block the sun when in bloom.
Grow Jalapeno Peppers in Well-Drained Soil
How to grow jalapenos
step 4 - A raised bed is a great accompaniment to grow jalapeno peppers in
because they allow excess water to drain. Make sure the soil in the bed is level
so water doesn't pool; this can cause
plants to rot. Though a raised bed is great for well-drained soil, they
have a tendency to dry up a little too much. Keep an eye on the moisture level
of the soil and make sure the peppers receive at least 1 inch of water per
week.
Make a Note of Crop Rotation
How to grow jalapenos
step 5 - It's always a good idea to rotate crops so they don't deplete the
soil of specific nutrients. However, jalapeno peppers are susceptible to
diseases such as verticillium wilt, which can be left behind by other plants.
Do not grow jalapenos in a raised bed that has grown fruits and vegetables from
the Solanaceae or Rosaceae families. This includes peppers, eggplants,
tomatoes, potatoes, brambles and petunias.
Protecting Pepper Plants from Strong Winds is a Must
How to grow jalapenos
step 6 - When choosing a raised bed to grow jalapeno peppers in, opt for
one that is shielded from strong winds. Jalapenos have a tendency to fall over
when a strong wind blows through. Place cages around them and mound the soil
around stems for a little extra support to prevent damage and breakage. If
growing bush-like varieties, caging shouldn't be an issue.
Though jalapeno peppers love hot, arid regions, they can be
grown just about anywhere. Follow guides tailored to specific regions
concerning the best varieties to plant and when. Keep an eye out for pests and
signs of disease which should be dealt with as soon as they become evident. These
are 6 tips for you how to grow jalapenos in your home, you can try these tips
and enjoy bushels of fresh jalapenos which can be dried, frozen and preserved
for later use.