GROWING CHILI PEPPERS

IN COLDER CLIMATES

Choose the Right Variety

The first step in growing chili peppers in colder climates is selecting the right variety.
Some chili pepper varieties are more suited to cooler temperatures than others.
Look for smaller, early-maturing varieties that can ripen quickly before the cold sets in.
It’s best to choose chili pepper varieties that are more tolerant of lower temperatures and shorter growing seasons.
The chili pepper varieties in this list tend to perform well in cooler climates and are more suitable to grow outdoors in your kitchen garden.

Orange Spice Jalapeño
Are relatively hardy and mature faster than many other peppers in about 60 days.
They can grow well in cooler conditions, especially if started indoors early and provided with enough sunlight.

Cayenne pepper
Are fairly resilient and have a shorter growing cycle.
These peppers can ripen relatively quickly, which is useful for climates with a shorter growing season.

Black Hungarian (Black pearl pepper)
Are a designer style jalapeno-shaped peppers with dark leaves and a citrus undertone.
They are around 3 inches long, kinda tiny and mature in about 75 days.
They have the same low scoville level as as average jalapeños.
A perfect choice for gardeners who have a garden filled with shadows for at least half of the day.

D666’s Fear
Are very strong, large and hot chili peppers with an earthy and umami taste.
They tend to turn red quickly and are very stable to grow in cooler climates.
Thick ripe fruits with a high capsaine level will develop within 60-80 days.
A very strong pungent variety with a large yield which can withstand frost like a true winter champion.
A decorative showpiece for your garden in December.

Chile de árbol (Birds Beak Chili or Rat’s Tail Chili)
Are smaller and matures quickly, typically within 70 to 90 days.
It can be a good choice for gardeners in short growing seasons or those with unpredictable weather.

Padrón pepper
Are jalapeno-shaped peppers around 3 inches long which mature in about 75 days. They have the same scoville level as average jalapeños and have a more sweeter taste. A good choice for gardeners who have less sunlight in their garden.

Hungarian wax pepper
Are another relatively hardy variety. They are medium heat peppers that are quick to mature,
making them perfect for regions with shorter growing seasons.

Banana pepper
Which are milder and faster to grow, maturing in about 60-75 days.
They can be a good option for cooler climates since they require less heat than some of the hotter varieties.

It’s best to start seeds indoors and then transplant them once the temperatures warm up.
Make sure to provide the plants with plenty of warmth and sun either indoors or in a greenhouse.

They’re also very suitable for container growing which gives you flexibility
in moving them indoors if the weather turns cold unexpectedly.
Keep the plants in a sunny spot and ensure consistent watering.
They can handle some cool nights once established.
Since they mature quickly they’re able to produce peppers even in shorter seasons.
Researching local success stories and seeking advice from fellow gardeners in the area
can help you find the best options for your region.

Start Indoors Early

In colder climates it’s crucial to give chili peppers a head start by starting seeds indoors.
Begin the process 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost.
By starting early, you can provide the chili peppers with the necessary time to mature and produce fruit.

Use seed trays or small pots and place them in a warm location with plenty of sunlight or supplement with grow lights.
This method ensures that your plants have a strong start before being exposed to the harsh outdoor elements.

Use Lifted Soilbeds, Trays or Containers for Flexibility

Growing chili peppers in (styrofoam) containers, trays or lifted soilbeds, keeping them off the cold floor provides more protection and flexibility especially in colder climates. The soil won’t freeze as quickly when
lifted from the cold frozen underground called earth.

By planting in trays and containers you can move your plants indoors during cold spells or overnight frosts.
Ensure that your trays and containers have adequate drainage and choose ones large enough to allow the roots to spread. This also makes it easier to manage the soil temperature and moisture levels.

Utilize Greenhouses or Cold Frames

To create a more controlled environment, a greenhouse or cold frame can be a gardener’s best friend. These structures help to trap heat from the sun, creating a warmer microclimate that mimics the ideal growing conditions for chili peppers.
In colder climates, greenhouses extend the growing season and protect plants from frost. Even a simple cold frame, which is essentially a mini-greenhouse, can provide enough warmth to help the peppers thrive.

Provide Extra Heat

Chili peppers require warmth to grow successfully. In colder climates the outdoor temperatures often fall below the optimal range. During the growing season consider using row covers, heat mats or even small outdoor heaters to help maintain a consistent temperature for your plants.
If growing inside, make sure the indoor temperature stays between 21-29°C (70-85°F ) during the daytime
as chili peppers are sensitive to cold temperatures. Colder temperatures can really stunt their growth.

Protect from Frost

Frost is one of the biggest threats to chili peppers in colder climates. Even a light frost can damage
the plants or halt fruit production. As a precaution monitor weather forecasts and be prepared to
cover your plants with frost cloths or move them indoors when necessary.
Some gardeners even harvest the peppers slightly early and allow them to ripen indoors to avoid the risk of frost.

Action and Care

Chili peppers grown in colder climates may take longer to mature, so taking precautions and coming into action when needed, is key. Be mindful of the weather, water consistently (but avoid over-watering) and feed the plants
with appropriate fertilizers to encourage healthy growth. If temperatures drop significantly,
you may want to provide additional insulation around the plants or get them of the cold tiles
to protect their roots and ensure they survive the winter.

Growing chili peppers in colder climates is certainly possible but it requires some extra effort and attention to detail.
By selecting the right varieties, starting indoors, using containers and employing protective measures
like greenhouses and row covers, gardeners in cooler regions can successfully cultivate these spicy fruits.

With patience, care and the right techniques you’ll be able to make a succes out of
homegrowing and enjoy red ripe chili peppers even in the chilliest of climates.

When to Harvest Chili Peppers

The timing of the harvest depends on the type of chili and your personal preference for heat level and flavor. Here’s how to know when your chilies are ready to be picked.

Color Change
Most chili peppers start off green and change color as they ripen. The most common color changes are from green to red, yellow, orange or purple, depending on the variety. When the peppers reach their mature color they are generally ready for harvest. For example: Jalapeños will turn red when fully ripe while Cayenne peppers will turn bright red.

Size
If the peppers have reached their full size (varies by variety), that’s another sign that they are likely ready for harvest. However, keep in mind that peppers can often still ripen after picking,
especially if you’re harvesting them slightly early to avoid frost.

Firmness
Ripe chili peppers should feel firm when gently squeezed. If the pepper feels soft or mushy, it may be overripe or beginning to spoil. The skin should also have a smooth texture without any wrinkles or discoloration.

Taste Test
If you’re unsure whether your peppers are ready, you can always taste one! Harvesting a few peppers early for a taste test will give you an idea of whether they have reached the desired heat and flavor profile.

Weather Conditions
If you’re growing in a colder climate and there’s a risk of frost, it’s best to harvest your peppers before the first frost hits.
You can leave them on the plant as long as possible.
If temperatures drop too much it’s safer to pick them early

How to Preserve Chili Peppers

After harvesting your chili peppers, proper preservation methods will help you extend their
shelf life and enjoy them for months. Here are several methods:

Drying
Is one of the most common and effective ways to preserve chili peppers. You can use several methods.

Air Drying: If you live in a dry climate, you can string the peppers together and hang them in a warm, well-ventilated area. This method works best for smaller peppers, like Thai chilies.

Oven Drying: Place the peppers on a baking sheet and dry them at a low temperature (around 125°F or 50°C). Be sure to check them regularly to avoid burning.

Dehydrator: A food dehydrator is an excellent tool for drying peppers efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and typically, it will take 8-12 hours.

Once dried,
store your peppers in airtight containers or glass jars away from direct sunlight.
Dried peppers can also be ground into chili powder.

Freezing
Is a good option if you want to preserve the peppers’ taste and texture.
Wash and dry the peppers thoroughly. Cut off the stems and, if desired, remove the seeds. You can freeze whole peppers, but cutting them into smaller pieces or slices can make them easier to use later. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them for 1-2 hours to prevent them from sticking together.
Once frozen, transfer the peppers into freezer bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
Frozen peppers retain most of their flavor, but their texture may soften when thawed. They’re best used in cooking rather than raw applications.

Pickling
Is another way to preserve chili peppers and gives them a unique, tangy flavor. To pickle your peppers,
wash and slice the peppers (or leave them whole if preferred).
Prepare a pickling solution using vinegar, water, salt, sugar and any additional spices like garlic,
bay leaves or mustard seeds.
Place the peppers in sterilized jars, pour the pickling liquid over them and seal the jars.
Allow them to sit in a cool, dark place for about 2-4 weeks to fully develop the flavor.

Canning
Is similar to pickling but involves sealing jars in a water bath to preserve the peppers. This method is more labor-intensive and requires special equipment, but it can store peppers for up to a year.
Prepare your chili peppers as you would for pickling, but use sterilized jars.
Follow proper canning procedures for safety, including processing the jars in boiling water to kill bacteria and seal the jars.
Pickled peppers can last for several months in the fridge.

Making Chili Paste or Sauce
If you prefer to preserve your peppers in a more flavorful form, you can make chili paste or sauce.
Blend the peppers with oil, vinegar, garlic, or other spices to create a paste. This can be stored in the fridge for a few weeks or frozen in small portions for longer storage.
Alternatively, cook the peppers down into a sauce or salsa, which can be preserved through canning or freezing.

Harvesting chili peppers at the right time ensures you get the best flavor and heat from your plants.
Keep an eye on their color, size, and firmness to determine the best moment to pick them.
Once harvested, there are various ways to preserve your peppers including drying, freezing, pickling, and canning. Each method has its advantages, depending on how you plan to use the peppers later.
With these techniques you’ll be able to enjoy the spicy goodness of homegrown chilies all year round!

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