Growing peppers for the southwest.

There are many types of peppers that can be grown in the southwest. Here is a list and recommendation of peppers and chili peppers for the Southwestern region of the U.S.

The botanical name for peppers is (Capsicum sp.) and they come in all shapes,colors and sizes.

Did you know that the more water you give your peppers the more hot they will taste. And cooler temperatures will actually decrease the pungency of chili peppers.

One of the most popular is the Jalapeno. This pepper can grow to about 3" long and about 1.5" wide. They are ready when the dark green flesh starts to turn a reddish color. They are of course highly pungent. It is really hard to tell which one will be hotter the next one. The jalapeno can be canned, pickeled. The tam Jalapeno is what most wholesalers use for their salsa's.

The long green chili are also very popular through out the southwest. The Anaheim Chili, is a classic Favorite with Unbeatable Mild Heat! 8-inch peppers are well protected by foliage throughout their growth.

The New Mexico Chili is another all time favorite. There are several varieties that you can grow or purchase. The NuMex varieties are usually mild to medium. The Sandia and Espanola peppers are much hotter.

Here are some tips on growing these awesome chili peppers.

1. Chili peppers are warm weather seasonal crop and require the same conditions as growing tomatoes.

2. Fertilizing should be at about 1lb per 100sq ft. You should use a fertilizer with a high content of phosphorous an analysis of 0-30-0 is excellent. However you should check with your local county extension agency to collect soil samples for a better analysis of fertilizer for your soil.

3. Chili peppers like well drained loamy sandy soil with a pH of about 7.0 or somewhere close. It is best if you use good compost to improve soil and water retention qualities.

4. Keep a good eye on your peppers. Pests such as the flea beetles, thrips, leafhoppers and horn-worms will damage your crop. Diseases can become a big problem. Nematodes, Verticillium wilt, root rot can reduce or damage all of your plants.

If you encounter any of these problems call you county Extension agency for some good advice. Or come by and visit Color Your World Nurseries for some expert chili pepper gardening advice.

Paul

Here are more tips on growing chili peppers