Tabasco

Pepper

Zone 12a Save Garden

🌱 95d to harvest Upright

A blaze of flavor in miniature—Tabasco peppers ripen to a vivid, glossy red that catches the light like lacquer. Their slender, t…

Crop Dates

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

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	95
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

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease is most likely on Capsicum frutescens (Tabasco), and how can I control it at home?

A common issue is aphids and thrips, which can stunt growth and spread viruses; check new growth and the undersides of leaves weekly. Spray plants with a strong jet of water first, then apply insecticidal soap (especially along leaf undersides) and repeat every 5–7 days until new growth is clean. If you see leaf spotting with progressive wilting, remove affected leaves and improve airflow around plants to reduce humidity.

How often should I water Tabasco (Capsicum frutescens) during the main growing phase?

Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil dry out, typically about 1–2 times per week in summer depending on heat and container size. Keep soil evenly moist during flowering and fruit set, but avoid soggy soil because Capsicum frutescens is prone to root stress in waterlogged conditions. Mulch lightly to steady moisture, and water at the base rather than overhead to limit leaf disease.

How do I know when my Tabasco peppers (Capsicum frutescens) are ready to harvest?

Harvest when pods reach full size and have turned from green to bright red (about 80–95 days to maturity, depending on conditions). For hotter, thicker-walled peppers, wait until they’re fully red; for a milder flavor, you can pick when they are orange-red. Use scissors or pruners to avoid tearing stems, which helps plants keep producing.

A blaze of flavor in miniature—Tabasco peppers ripen to a vivid, glossy red that catches the light like lacquer. Their slender, tapered pods deliver a sharp, unmistakably hot bite with a bright, tangy edge, backed by a crisp, juicy snap. Grow Tabasco for bold, fiery sauces and quick pickling, or to dry and grind for a dependable heat that livens every spoonful.

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

Start warm and transplant only when soil is reliably warm (about 60°F+), then keep humidity high and airflow steady to avoid stressed, slow growth.