Red Habanero Pepper
The classic red habanero is a fiery red variation on the common orange habanero. Fruits are extremely hot, measuring 40 times hotter than the Jalapeno! The fruits are somewhat lantern shaped, and average 1" wide by 1 1/2" long. Plants can grow to 2-3 feet and bear quite heavily. As with most peppers, plants can be overwintered in warm areas or greenhouses for added production the following year.
Days to Maturity
The Red Habanero has been around in one form or another for many years. The origin is unknown, but is likely from tropical America.
Start seeds in small containers from 8-10 weeks prior to the last frost date. Plant seeds approximately 1/4-1/2" deep in moist, well drained potting soil. Most standard soil mixes are suitable for pepper seeds. Soil temperature must be kept at 75-90F for proper germination. Cool soil, particularly at night can inhibit or significantly delay germination. To keep soil temperature warm, start seeds indoors, in a greenhouse and/or use a seed starting heat mat. Keep soil moderately moist, though not overly, dripping wet. Water soil when the soil surface just begins to dry. Allow proper air circulation for containers.
Optionally, seeds can be dipped in a dilute hydrogen peroxide mix (1 tsp hydrogen perioxide per cup water) for one minute to disinfect seeds prior to planting. If your soil or seed setup is susceptible to mold growth this can be useful to kill mold spores.
Once seedlings have sprouted, keep in small containers until a few sets of leaves have developed. Transplant to larger containers or outdoors. If transplanting outdoors, make sure to harden off seedlings by exposing them to only filtered sunlight for up to 1-2 weeks. Thin plants to 3-4 ft and rows to 6-10 ft.
Estimated germination time under optimal conditions: 2-10 weeks