PEPPER, Early Jalapeno
Capsicum annuum
Seeds per packet - 25
Germination Rate: 84% Oct 2024, Packed for 2025
The Early Jalapeno is a variety of the common Jalapeno pepper, known for its early ripening and slightly milder heat compared to standard Jalapenos. This variety is particularly favored by gardeners with shorter growing seasons, as it allows for an earlier harvest. The Early Jalapeno is a popular choice for those looking to grow their own peppers, offering a manageable level of heat, a delicious flavor profile, and the advantage of an early harvest.
The Early Jalapeno pepper typically grows to about 2-3 inches in length and has a classic Jalapeno shape, with a smooth, firm, and glossy green skin that turns red when fully ripe. The peppers are generally cylindrical but may have a slight curve.
While still spicy, Early Jalapenos are considered to be slightly milder than the average Jalapeno, with a Scoville heat unit range of 2,500 to 8,000. They possess the characteristic Jalapeno flavor, which is bright, peppery, and slightly pungent, with a subtle sweetness when ripe.
This variety matures earlier than others, making it an excellent choice for cooler climates or for those who wish to harvest their peppers sooner. It typically takes about 60-70 days from transplanting to reach maturity, which is quicker than many other hot pepper varieties. Early Jalapeno plants are compact and bushy, making them suitable for a variety of garden settings, including container gardening. They prefer full sun and well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Regular watering and fertilization will help maximize yield and pepper size.
Peppers can be harvested when they are green and firm for a milder flavor or allowed to ripen to red for a sweeter and slightly hotter taste. Frequent harvesting encourages the plant to produce more fruit throughout the growing season. Early Jalapenos are versatile in the kitchen and can be used in a wide range of culinary applications. They are excellent for making salsas, pickling, stuffing, or adding to dishes that require a spicy kick. They can be used fresh, roasted, smoked (to make chipotles), or dried.
