1 6

JNB Seed

Serrano Hot Pepper Seed

Serrano Hot Pepper Seed

$3.80 CAD
$3.80 CAD
Sale Sold out
Seed Count

Serrano peppers are smaller in size compared to Jalapenos, measuring approximately 3.8 centimeters long. These peppers are widely used in hot salsas, sauces, and various Mexican dishes. They have glossy exteriors with medium-thin walls that transition to an orange-red hue upon reaching maturity. When fully grown at 80 days, Serrano peppers can reach a heat level of 3,500 Scoville Heat Units.

Originally hailing from the mountainous regions of the Mexican states of Puebla and Hidalgo, Serrano peppers derive their name from the Spanish word meaning "from the mountains." Renowned for their unique blend of intense heat and flavor, Serrano chiles hold a significant cultural significance in Mexico and are gaining popularity in the United States. Incorporating Serrano peppers into your dishes ensures maximum flavor and the perfect level of spiciness. These compact peppers are indispensable for authentic Mexican cuisine and flavorful salsa.

With their fiery taste, Serrano peppers make a bold addition to salsa and Mexican dishes. For maximum heat, harvest these slender peppers once they ripen to a vibrant red color.

Thriving in warm and humid conditions, Serrano pepper plants prefer sunny locations with well-drained soil. Their glossy appearance, medium-thin walls, and transition to orange-red color upon maturity make them visually appealing. With a heat level of 3,500 Scoville Heat Units achieved at 80 days after planting, Serrano peppers embody the essence of Mexican culinary tradition.

    How To Grow

    Sowing: Begin by planting serrano pepper seeds indoors in peat pots approximately 8 weeks before the last anticipated spring frost. Plant them at a depth of 0.6 centimeters and maintain the soil temperature between 27 to 30 degrees Celsius until germination occurs. Ensure they receive 12-16 hours of sunlight or artificial light per day. Once the outdoor temperature reaches 15 to 18 degrees Celsius during the day, with a minimum of 10 degrees Celsius at night, transplant the seedlings into the garden, spacing them 30 to 40 centimeters apart. Gradually expose the plants to outdoor conditions for a few hours each day before transplanting to minimize shock. Peppers can also thrive in containers or raised beds.

    Growing: Maintain consistently moist soil and manage weed growth. Mulching around the plants can assist in achieving this. If excessive heat and sunlight cause the plants to wilt, provide shade to protect them.

    Harvesting

    Harvesting: The process of harvesting hot peppers largely depends on individual preferences. Typically, the longer peppers remain on the vine, the spicier they become. However, it's important to note that mature peppers signal the plant to halt production; picking peppers while they are still green encourages continued growth. To prevent damage to the delicate stems, always use a knife or scissors when removing peppers.

    Seed Saving

    Seed Preservation: It's important to consider that peppers have the tendency to cross-pollinate with other pepper varieties, necessitating isolation or caging to maintain genetic integrity. Once the pepper reaches full maturity, carefully cut it open and extract the seeds. Spread out the seeds in a well-ventilated area to dry for approximately two weeks. Store the Serrano pepper seeds in a cool, dry location for a maximum of two years. Alternatively, allow the pepper to mature fully on the plant until it begins to wrinkle. Remove and open the pepper to access the seeds, then allow them to dry in a shaded area for one to two weeks, ensuring to turn them periodically for uniform drying. Store the dried seeds in a dark, dry environment for up to five years.

    Extra Facts

    Serrano Hot Pepper Seed

    Planting Methods: Serrano hot pepper seeds can be directly sown into the soil or started indoors in biodegradable pots for later transplantation.
    Blooming Season: Serrano peppers typically bloom during the warmer months of spring and summer.
    Planting Season: Plant Serrano hot pepper seeds outdoors after the last expected spring frost or start them indoors approximately 8 weeks before the last frost date.
    Latin Name/USDA Zones: Capsicum annuum
    USDA Zones: Zones 9-11
    Sunlight Required/ Height: Full sun.
    Height: Mature plants generally reach a height of 45-60 centimeters.
    Shelf Life After Test Date: The shelf life of Serrano hot pepper seeds after the test date is typically 1-3 years if stored properly in a cool, dry place.
    Seed Type: Serrano hot pepper seeds are open-pollinated, non-hybrid seeds.
    Soil Type: Serrano peppers thrive in well-draining soil. Suitable soil types include loam soil, clay soil, or sandy soil.

    View full details