Poblano - Also known as Ancho when dried, Poblano peppers are heart-shaped and have a mildly spicy, earthy flavor. These peppers are popular in Mexican cuisine, especially for making chiles rellenos. Poblanos start as deep green and mature to a dark red-brown when dried, adding rich color and flavor to dishes. Their unique taste and texture make them versatile for both fresh and dried use.
Key Features
- Mild Heat: Adds gentle spice to dishes.
- Rich Flavor: Earthy and smoky when dried.
- Versatile Use: Known as Ancho when dried.
Pepper Growing Guide
Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)
- Timing: Start pepper seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last expected frost date.
- Containers: Use seed trays, small pots, or cell packs with good drainage. Peppers transplant well, so space for root growth is essential.
- Planting:
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, placing 1–2 seeds per cell or pot.
- Cover lightly with soil mix and water gently to ensure even moisture.
- Germination:
- Maintain a temperature of 70–85°F for optimal germination.
- Expect seedlings to emerge within 7–14 days.
- Thinning: Thin to one plant per cell or pot after seedlings develop their first true leaves.
- Transplanting: Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7–10 days before transplanting. Transplant outdoors when soil temperatures are consistently above 65°F and all risk of frost has passed.
Outdoor Sowing (Directly in the Garden)
- Timing: In warm climates, pepper seeds can be sown directly outdoors after the last frost date, once the soil has warmed to at least 65°F.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. Peppers require at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 8–10 inches and incorporate compost or a balanced fertilizer to improve fertility and drainage.
- Planting Seeds:
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, spacing them 18–24 inches apart in rows.
- Space rows 24–36 inches apart for adequate airflow and easy access.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which typically takes 7–14 days. Once established, water regularly but avoid waterlogging the soil.
General Care Tips for Peppers
- Sunlight: Provide full sun with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Peppers thrive in warm temperatures.
- Watering: Water deeply and consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Mulch around plants to retain soil moisture and reduce weeds.
- Fertilizing: Peppers are moderate feeders. Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and side-dress with a low-nitrogen fertilizer when plants begin to flower.
- Weeding: Keep the area weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients and moisture. Mulching helps suppress weeds and maintain soil moisture.
- Supporting Plants: For larger varieties or heavy fruit loads, provide stakes or cages to prevent plants from toppling over.
- Harvesting: Harvest peppers when they are firm and have reached their desired size or color. Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut peppers from the plant, leaving a short stem attached.
