Lombok Chile Pepper
Capsicum annuum
Seeds per packet: ~25
Germination - 95% Oct 2023 Packed for 2024
Lombok chile, also known as "Cabe Lombok" in Indonesia, is a variety of hot pepper that is widely used in Indonesian cuisine. The Lombok chile is named after the island of Lombok in Indonesia, which is known for its vibrant culinary culture. These peppers are medium to long in size, typically ranging from 2 to 6 inches in length, and have a slender, slightly curved shape.
We got these wonderful Indonesian pepper seeds from our friends at Southern Exposure Seed Exchange. An excellent hot drying pepper with great taste and rich color. Fruits measure 1 in. at the shoulder and taper to 5-6 in. long. The lower third of the fruit is without heat and may be eaten like a sweet pepper. The best of our dried hot pepper trials.
The skin of Lombok chiles is smooth and shiny, and they are usually red when fully ripe, although they can also be found in green and yellow varieties depending on their maturity. The red variety is particularly favored for its sweet yet spicy flavor, which adds both color and heat to dishes.
In terms of heat level, Lombok chiles are moderately spicy, generally scoring between 15,000 to 30,000 on the Scoville Heat Scale, making them hotter than jalapeños but milder than habaneros. They are used in a variety of Indonesian dishes such as sambals (a spicy chili sauce or paste), curries, and marinades. The peppers are valued for their ability to impart a significant but manageable level of spiciness that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dishes they are used in.
GROWING LOMBOK CHILE PEPPERS
Growing Lombok chile peppers can be a rewarding endeavor for gardeners who enjoy spicy flavors. Here’s a detailed guide on how to cultivate these peppers successfully:
Starting Seeds Indoors
Start seeds indoors about 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area. Use a sterile seed starting mix to avoid disease issues. Plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep in small pots or trays. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Pepper seeds germinate best at temperatures between 80°F and 90°F (27°C to 32°C). Consider using a heat mat to maintain a consistent temperature. Once sprouted, seedlings need plenty of light. Place them in a sunny window or use grow lights to prevent legginess, ensuring they receive at least 12-16 hours of light per day.
Transplanting Seedlings
Gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions by setting them outside in a shaded area for a few hours each day for a week, gradually increasing their exposure to sun and outdoor temperatures. Transplant seedlings into the garden or larger pots when they are about 6 inches tall and the danger of frost has passed. Space plants about 18-24 inches apart in rows that are 2-3 feet apart.
Location and Soil
Choose a location that receives full sun for at least 6-8 hours per day. Peppers prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.8. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage.
Watering and Fertilizing
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during flowering and fruit development. Water deeply once or twice a week, more frequently in hot or dry weather. Feed the plants with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks, or use a slow-release fertilizer at planting time. Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers as they can promote leaf growth at the expense of fruit development.
Management: Support, Pest and Disease Control
Staking or using cages can help support the plants as they grow and prevent branches from breaking under the weight of the peppers. Regularly check for signs of pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage infestations. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases like leaf spot and blight.
Harvesting
Lombok chiles typically take 60-90 days from transplanting to reach maturity. Harvest when the peppers are firm and the desired color has developed, typically red, but sometimes yellow or green depending on personal preference and intended use.
By following these steps, you can grow Lombok chile peppers and enjoy their vibrant flavor in your cooking.
