Hot Pepper Seeds, West Indies Red Habanero

star-filled
4.7
6 Reviews
Sku:
#HPP235
Min. seed count:
10
$4.00

Description

(Capsicum chinense). A scorching hot habanero from the Caribbean that is dependable and productive. This blazing fruit is considered a must have in Caribbean kitchen gardens, and rightfully so, the fiery pods are a staple in Jamaican jerk and Caribbean hot sauces.

  • 90-100 days to maturity
  • 8-12 hours of full sun
  • Sprouts in 7-10 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 West Indies Red Habanero is a classic Caribbean heirloom pepper that requires warm temperatures, full sun 8-12 hours daily, and good care throughout the growing season. It prefers nutrient-rich and well-draining soil.

When to Grow

Start West Indies Red Habanero seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Transplant seedlings outdoors only when temperatures consistently remain above 65 F. For those in colder zones, refer to your USDA hardiness zone map to determine optimal frost dates and ensure a warm enough growing season.

How to Sow and Plant

To sow seeds, plant them about 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting trays or small pots indoors, using a well-draining seed-starting mix. Habanero seeds germinate best when the soil temperature is between 80-85 F; a heating mat can be useful to maintain this warmth. Provide seedlings with plenty of light, either from a sunny window or grow lights. When transplanting, space plants 14-18 inches apart in the garden or grow individually in containers.

How to Grow

Water the plants consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist but avoiding waterlogging, as peppers are sensitive to overly wet conditions. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer at planting and switch to a low-nitrogen fertilizer during flowering to encourage fruit production. While generally compact, these plants may need light staking as they begin to bear heavy fruit.

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 West Indies Red Habanero peppers?
These peppers are very hot, often reaching up to 350,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU), placing them on the upper end of the habanero heat scale.

Should I harvest West Indies Red Habanero Peppers when they are green or red?
They can be harvested green, but for the best flavor and maximum heat, it’s recommended to harvest them when they reach a mature red color.

Are West Indies Red Habanero Peppers suitable for drying and powdering?
Yes, these peppers are great for drying and grinding into a powder, making an excellent spicy seasoning.

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Hot Pepper Seeds, West Indies Red Habanero
star-filled
4.7
Customer reviews (6)

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