Sierra Norte

Pepper

Zone 9a Save Garden

🌱 75d to harvest Bush

Aromatic and vividly alive on the plant, Sierra Norte jalapeños ripen to a glossy, medium-deep green that turns to a warm, ripe r…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Jan 16th
Last Frost	Mar 6th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 1st
Harvest Begins	Jul 15th
Harvest Ends	Nov 26th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	75
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Bush
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

How do I prevent and treat blossom-end rot and bacterial spot on Capsicum annuum (jalapeño)?

Blossom-end rot shows up as dark, sunken patches on the fruit tip and is usually from inconsistent watering—keep soil evenly moist once plants are flowering. For bacterial spot (small water-soaked spots that spread on leaves), remove and discard affected leaves early and avoid wetting foliage when you water; increase airflow with proper spacing. If problems persist, switch to a labeled copper-based bactericide and apply according to the product directions.

During the main growing phase for Capsicum annuum, how often should I water and what soil moisture level should I aim for?

Water jalapeños so the top 1–2 inches of soil stays evenly moist; this typically means about 1–2 inches of water per week depending on heat, with deeper watering less frequently. During flowering and fruit set, don’t let the soil dry out completely—water when the surface is dry to the touch, then water thoroughly until excess drains. Mulch can help stabilize moisture and reduce fruit disorders.

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

Harvest at about 75 days from transplanting or when fruits reach the expected size for your plants and feel firm. Jalapeños are usually harvested green—choose peppers that are glossy and have fully developed their full length, and pick frequently to encourage more fruit. If you leave them on to ripen further, they turn red, but your yield will slow after peak green harvest.

Aromatic and vividly alive on the plant, Sierra Norte jalapeños ripen to a glossy, medium-deep green that turns to a warm, ripe red with a satisfying sheen. Expect a bright, peppery heat with a crisp, juicy bite—ideal for fresh salsas, roasted chile-forward flavor, and bold pickling where their firm walls hold shape and color. Grow Sierra Norte for dependable harvests and a fiery, garden-to-jar intensity that feels unmistakably varietal.

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

Because jalapeños are cold-sensitive even when days to maturity are shorter, wait to transplant until soil is truly warm (around 60°F+) and protect from cool nights with cloches or row cover.