Bhut Jolokia

Hot Pepper

Zone 11b Save Garden

🌱 120d to harvest Upright

A slow-burning blaze of heat—Bhut Jolokia (Ghost Pepper) delivers an intense, smoky-fruity punch that lingers long after the firs…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Nov 6th
Last Frost	Jan 1st
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Feb 26th
Harvest Begins	Jun 26th
Harvest Ends	Dec 31st

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	120
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	Stake
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	85
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	10

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I handle powdery mildew on Bhut Jolokia (ghost pepper) leaves?

Powdery mildew shows up as a white-gray powder on leaf surfaces, often starting on lower leaves in humid weather. Remove and discard heavily affected leaves, improve airflow with wider plant spacing, and water at the base so foliage stays dry. For home control, spray a thorough coating of potassium bicarbonate or neem oil as labeled, repeating every 5–7 days until new growth is clean.

How often should I water Bhut Jolokia during the 120-day growing phase?

Water deeply whenever the top 1 inch of soil dries out, which is typically every 3–5 days in warm weather and less often in cooler conditions. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy—Bhut Jolokia forms poorly and can rot if the soil stays wet. In containers, don’t let the mix dry out completely; aim for even moisture from transplant through fruit set.

What are the signs Bhut Jolokia is ready to harvest?

Bhut Jolokia pods are ready at about 120 days when they fully color up (commonly deep red/orange-red depending on the plant) and feel firm and slightly wrinkled near maturity. Harvest when the pod is at least 2–4 inches long (varies by plant) and the pepper skin is taut—if pods are still glossy green, they’re usually not at peak heat yet. Use gloves, because the oils can irritate skin and eyes.

A slow-burning blaze of heat—Bhut Jolokia (Ghost Pepper) delivers an intense, smoky-fruity punch that lingers long after the first breath. The peppers mature to a wrinkled, lantern-like shape in deep orange-red, with a thin, glossy skin and a crisp, seedy interior that catches light like lacquer. Grow it for bold fresh salsas, fiery sauces, and pickling-style preserves where its formidable character can shine.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 60°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 10 days first.

Expert Note

For Bhut Jolokia/Ghost Pepper, use bottom heat (~80–90°F) and wait for consistently warm soil before transplanting—cool soil is the main cause of slow growth or failure.