Hot Pepper Seeds,
Chiltepin Wild Chile

Chiltepin peppers should be started indoors 8–12 weeks before the last frost. In warmer climates, they can be transplanted outdoors once temperatures consistently stay above 65 F. Chiltepin is best suited to USDA Zones 8–11, where they may even grow as perennials if protected from frost​. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting mix. Keep the soil warm and moist to encourage germination. Transplant seedlings to an outdoor spot with partial shade, spacing plants about 14-18 inches apart. Chiltepin also grows well in containers; choose a pot that’s at least 2 gallons to give the roots room​.

Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid waterlogging; these peppers are drought-tolerant once established. Fertilize every 2–4 weeks with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth, reducing nitrogen as the plant begins fruiting. Mulching helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, which is especially important in hot, dry climates​.

• Peppers are mainly self-pollinating, but bees occasionally work pepper flowers as well.
• To be absolutely sure that you will not have any crossing, different varieties should be isolated by at least 500 feet.
• To save seed, allow the fruit to mature fully; then simply remove seeds.
• It is a good idea to wear gloves when working with very hot peppers, and to consider wearing a mask when working with a large quantity of dried seeds.
• Let seeds dry for a week before storing them in a jar.
• Pepper seeds will remain viable for up to 5 years.