100 Seeds

Thick cayenne pepper grows best in full sun in fertile, well-drained soil. They need warmth to grow, at least 60 F consistently. Water regularly; they need moist, but not over-saturated, soil. They are vulnerable to extremes of heat and cold. Keep the leaves clean so that the plants receive full benefit of the sun. If you use fertilizer, be careful not to give too much nitrogen or you will grow lush leaves and not very many peppers. If your plant grows tall and has a heavy harvest, you may need to provide supports so that it can grow upright.

Cayenne peppers are among the hardier types of pepper. They are usually not vulnerable to pepper diseases. They may be vulnerable to pests such as aphids or armyworms, but are usually less so than less spicy pepper varieties. If they are kept over-watered, they could develop bacterial spot or wilt.

Cayenne pepper plants may discourage pests from encroaching on other plants in your garden that grow near them.

Harvest when the peppers turn from shiny green to brilliant red. Cut 1 inch above the plant; do not pull or twist, as you may damage your plant.

Thick Cayenne Pepper Uses

Thick cayenne is used in cooking, in sauces, soups, and salads. The peppers can be used fresh, dried, or ground. They are common in cuisines that require spice and heat. They are a staple in Mexican, Cajun, and Asian cooking.

To dry peppers, simply string them together and hang in a sunny, dry place.

Cayenne peppers are rich in nutrients including vitamin A, C, B6, E, riboflavin, potassium and manganese.

Cayenne has been used for health for centuries. Capsaicin, the chemical that provides the spiciness, is the cause of many of the health benefits.

Cayenne can support weight loss and may improve your metabolism. The heat can unclog a stuffy nose. It can help to regulate blood sugar in improve blood circulation.

Sowing The Seed

Peppers are best started indoors, in a controlled environment, 6 to 8 weeks prior to the last frost. To prevent root shock, sow your seeds in peat pots, at a depth of 1/4” under topsoil. Transplant when the weather is warm and the plants are about 1 foot tall. Stakes can be used to support your young plants, to ensure proper growth. Check below for additional info on spacing & growth habits.

Growing Conditions

Pepper plants will thrive in the heat of summer, so they should receive full sunlight for the majority of the day, with temperatures of at least 75F or more. A soil that is rich in organic matter is best, with a pH level of at least 6.2 and 7.0. Also make sure that your sowing medium is well drained, or your plants can wilt due to being waterlogged. Water your pepper seeds daily to provide them with ample amounts of moisture until germination has occurred.

Germination & Growth

Pepper seeds typically take anywhere between 14 to 28 days to germinate. After your seedlings start to grow, they will mature to an estimated height of roughly 24 to 30 inches tall. On average, Pepper plants can be spaced 18 to 24 inches apart from one another, in rows spaced 18 inches apart. These plants do very well when grown directly in the garden, or in large pots and containers as well.