How to Grow Jalapenos in Pots or Containers

How to Grow Jalapenos in Pots or Containers in pots or containers. First things first. Let’s learn a few fun facts about Jalapenos. They were the first peppers to travel to space on a NASA shuttle. Furthermore, they are also the best source of Vitamin C. Jalapenos can also help you lose weight and lower blood pressure.

Planting Your Jalapeno Seeds

To be honest we always have Jalapeno’s on hand at our local grocery store. I used both the seeds from my peppers and ones I have purchased already in packets. I did find the ones in the packets to yield much more than those I planted from the actual pepper.

Plant your Jalapenos 2- 3 months before the last frost indoors. I use the Farmers Almanac to find out when to plant my Jalapeno’s. It is a FREE tool for every climate and area. In my area, I do most of my plants starting in March.

Caring For Your Jalapeno Peppers in Containers or pots

I love growing my jalapeno’s around the edge of my balcony. I can easily grab them when grilling up a meal. I use small containers which seem to work best. Although I do use the Miracle-Gro soil for moisture control as well. They love the sunlight, heat, and humid weather. I seem to grow an abundance of them every year. Here are some tips on maintaining healthy jalapeno plants all summer long.

• Keep the soil moist and humid
• Use a heating mat when starting your seedlings if needed
• Planting Jalapenos in pots, do not need as much feeds as you would if they were in the ground.
• Water early in the morning or evening when the sun is not directly on them
• Prune your plants early on

To Prune or Not to Prune

I can honestly say I have never pruned my Jalapeno plants. They grow so many I am not sure pruning would even benefit and may even stump their growth.

Common Problems with Jalapenos in Pots or Containers

Although I haven’t had any issues with aphids since I have so many other plants that attract ladybugs and hornets that eat them. Sicky paper can help with aphids. Bacterial and Fungus can occur so watch for any dark spots on your jalapeno’s. To avoid these problems trim the bottoms so no leaves are hitting the soil. I also use the coffee ground on top of the soil. (Use sparingly) This will help prevent fungus and other bacteria from taking hold. If you notice yellow leaves or the leaves are dying and falling off. You most likely are dealing with some fungal or bacterial issues.

If Your Jalapeno’s Look Cracked and Red

There is no need to worry. That is good if you love hot peppers. When they have what they look like cracks on the skin. I find the spicier they are. They are not infected, only hotter. They may look something like this:

Preserving Your Jalapeno Peppers

There are so many ways to use your Jalapenos all summer long. I mean who doesn’t like Jalapeno Poppers! They are great just on the grill by themselves. The easiest way to preserve your jalapenos is to chop them and freeze them. No need to blanch first. They freeze very well. I would spread them out on a cookie sheet first. Once they are frozen put them in portion size bags for later use.

Drying Your Peppers is also another great way to preserve them. Making your own pepper flakes. For spicy flakes just put on the cookie sheet at your lowest temperature for about 6 – 10 hours. They will crumble when they come out. ALWAYS WEAR GLOVES WHEN HANDLING HOT PEPPERS LIKE JALAPENOS!

You can also check out my recipe section and find some great ways to make Jalapeno Jelly and pickled peppers.

Busy Bee Recommends

Since I grow everything in Ontario Canada I like to keep shopping local. So here are some of my finds and recommendations: Please see my recommendations for making the jalapeno Jelly on my recipe page.

Basil Beans Beets Bell Peppers Carrots Cayenne Peppers Celery Chinese Eggplant Chives Cucumber Garlic Jalapeno Kale Lemon Lettuce Mint Onions Oregano Parsley Peas Potatoes Rosemary Sage Spinach Thyme Tomatoes Zucchini