Padron Pepper

Sow seeds in late March, approximately 8 weeks before your anticipated transplant date, sowing at a rate of 4 seeds per inch and 1/4 inch deep in shallow flats or 20-row seed trays. Maintain soil temperatures between 80, 90°F for reliable germination, as pepper seeds germinate very slowly in cooler soil. Once the first true leaves appear, transplant seedlings into 2-inch cell-type containers or 4-inch pots and grow at approximately 70°F during the day and 60°F at night. Ideal seedlings for transplanting will have buds but not yet open flowers.

Transplant outdoors after all frost danger has passed and soil has warmed. Choose a location with full sun. Space plants 12 inches apart in rows 24, 36 inches apart. Water thoroughly at transplanting and ensure the soil is warm and weather is settled before moving seedlings from their protected environment.

Direct sowing is not recommended for this variety.

Padron peppers are edible and most flavorful when harvested as full-sized green fruit, approximately 60 days from transplant. However, peppers continue to develop and gain color as they mature to red, yellow, or orange, at which point they develop their fullest flavor and vitamin content. Use a sharp knife, shears, or scissors to remove fruit at the stem; wear gloves when harvesting, as the plant's capsaicin can irritate skin. Check plants regularly for peppers that are full-sized and the proper color, harvesting frequently to encourage continued production.