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Hot Pepper Seeds, Fish
Description
(Capsicum annuum). The Fish pepper, a historic African-American heirloom from the Philadelphia-Baltimore region, is known for its striking green and white leaves and colorful peppers that shift from creamy white to deep red. Originally from the Caribbean, it gained popularity in the 1870s as a secret ingredient in seafood sauces. Nearly lost by the early 1900s, it was preserved thanks to WWI veteran Horace Pippin, who passed seeds to beekeeper H. Ralph Weaver. Rediscovered in 1995 by Weaver’s grandson, this pepper’s unique beauty and rich, spicy flavor are now enjoyed widely again.
- 80 days to maturity
- 8-12 hours of full sun
- Sprouts in 10-14 days
- Seed Depth: 1/4"
- Plant Spacing: 14-18"
- Ideal Temperature: 70-95 F
- Frost Hardy: No
Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs
Growing Tips
The Fish pepper is a unique heirloom variety that thrives in containers and garden beds alike. It prefers full sun and slightly acidic, well-draining soil (pH 6.0–7.0). Using a heat mat set to around 80-85 degrees F and grow lights when starting seeds indoors encourages strong, healthy seedlings.
When to Grow
Start seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before your area’s last expected frost date. Transplant outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and temperatures remain above 65 F. In warm climates (USDA Zones 8-11), Fish peppers can be grown outdoors as perennials. In cooler zones, treat them as annuals and plant outside only when warm temperatures are consistent.
How to Sow and Plant
Sow Fish pepper seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting mix, keeping them warm at 80-85 F for optimal germination. It usually takes 10-14 days for the seeds to sprout. When seedlings have at least two sets of true leaves and outdoor temperatures are stable, transplant them 14-18 inches apart in well-prepared garden beds or large pots.
How to Grow
Provide Fish peppers with full sunlight, 8-12 hours daily, and keep the soil evenly moist, being careful not to overwater. Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture and suppress weeds, especially during hot weather. For best results, apply a balanced fertilizer once the plants start flowering, and continue every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
How to Save
- 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.
- 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.
- To save seed, allow the fruit to mature fully; then simply remove seeds.
- Let seeds dry for a week before storing them in a jar.
- Pepper seeds will remain viable for up to 5 years.
FAQ
How hot are Fish peppers?
Fish peppers have a medium to hot heat level, similar to a jalapeño, making them fit for both mild and spicier dishes.
Can I grow Fish peppers indoors?
Yes, they can be grown indoors in large containers if they receive enough light. A grow light may be necessary if natural light is insufficient.
When are Fish peppers ready to harvest?
They’re usually ready 80 days after transplanting. The peppers can be picked at any color stage but are fully mature when red.
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