Craig's Grande

Pepper

75d to harvest

Craig's Grande delivers a glossy, deep-green jalapeño that turns to a rich, warm red as it matures—its aroma is bright and peppery, with a satisfying snap and a juicy, medium-thick wall. Expect sturdy plants and dependable, high-yielding fruit that shines fresh and performs beautifully when roasted for smoky depth, then shines again in salsas and pickled favorites for bold, tangy heat.

Crop Dates

Growing note: Frost-free Zone 11a supports continuous outdoor production.

Milestone	Date
Climate	Frost-Free Climate
Growing Approach	Continuous Production

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	75
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	Stake
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	80
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	10

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most common pest or disease problem for Capsicum annuum (jalapeño peppers) and how do I control it?

Watch for aphids and whiteflies, which cluster on the undersides of jalapeño leaves and can lead to sooty mold. Spray plants with insecticidal soap and remove heavily infested leaves, then repeat every 5–7 days until activity stops. Also check regularly for blossom-end rot early on; keep soil moisture even during fruit set to reduce the calcium-related issue.

How often should I water jalapeño peppers during the main growing phase?

During active growth and fruit set, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged—aim for about 1–2 inches of water per week depending on heat and container size. Water deeply so it reaches the root zone, then let the top 1 inch of soil dry slightly before watering again. Irregular watering can trigger leaf drop and blossom-end rot.

How can I tell when my jalapeños (Capsicum annuum) are ready to harvest?

Harvest at about 75 days when pods have reached full size and are firm and glossy. For a classic jalapeño look, pick when fruits are dark green and still crisp; they can also be left longer to ripen to red, but expect a softer pod. Use scissors or pruners to cut the stem so you don’t tear the plant.