SproutSmart
SproutSmart Intelligent Garden Sowing

Cayenne Pepper

Pepper

Planting Schedule

Add Cayenne Pepper to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.
Botanical illustration of Cayenne Pepper
75d to harvest

Aromatic heat with a bright, cayenne-snap—Cayenne Pepper delivers slender pods that ripen to a vivid, glossy red and carry a clean, peppery fragrance from garden to pantry. The fruit is smooth and taut, tapering to a fine point with a crisp, meaty wall that holds its character when dried or ground. Grow Cayenne Pepper for bold, fiery flavor in dried pepper blends, seasoning rubs, and vibrant sauces that crave a lively kick.

Crop Dates

MilestoneDate
Start IndoorsMar 2nd
Last FrostApr 20th
Transplant / Sow OutdoorsJun 15th
Harvest BeginsAug 29th
Harvest EndsOct 20th

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity75
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitBush
Support NeededStake
Planting DepthNormal
Germination Temp (°F)80
Min Soil Temp (°F)60
Min Night Temp (°F)50
Harden Off (days)10

Frequently Asked Questions


What pest or disease is most likely on Capsicum annuum (cayenne pepper), and what should I do?
Watch for blossom-end rot and bacterial spot, which are common in Capsicum annuum when conditions swing in moisture. Blossom-end rot shows as dark, sunken patches on the fruit tip—keep soil evenly moist and avoid letting plants dry out between waterings, then mulch to stabilize moisture. For bacterial spot (small water-soaked spots that spread on leaves), remove affected leaves early, avoid wetting foliage, and improve airflow with proper spacing and pruning of overcrowded growth.
How often should I water cayenne pepper during the main growing phase?
During the main growth and fruit set phase, water deeply whenever the top 1 inch of soil feels dry, usually about 2–3 times per week in warm weather. Capsicum annuum needs consistent moisture to prevent fruit issues; aim for evenly moist soil rather than soaking then drying completely. If leaves wilt during midday heat but recover by evening, don’t increase frequency—check soil depth moisture and water gradually at the root zone.
Botanical illustration of Cayenne Pepper

Aromatic heat with a bright, cayenne-snap—Cayenne Pepper delivers slender pods that ripen to a vivid, glossy red and carry a clean, peppery fragrance from garden to pantry. The fruit is smooth and taut, tapering to a fine point with a crisp, meaty wall that holds its character when dried or ground. Grow Cayenne Pepper for bold, fiery flavor in dried pepper blends, seasoning rubs, and vibrant sauces that crave a lively kick.