Cayenne Long Slim Pepper Seeds

Sow Hot Cayenne Pepper seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last expected frost. Plant them ¼ inch deep in a warm seed-starting mix and keep soil temperature around 75–85°F (24–29°C) for even germination, Under favorable conditions Cayenne Pepper seeds sprout in 7–10 days. Harden off seedlings during 7-10 days, and transplant outdoors only when nights stay consistently above 50°F (10°C). In the ground, space plants are 18–24 inches apart with 24–36 inches between rows.

Hot Pepper Cayenne Long Slim needs full sun for 6–8 hours daily for consistent fruiting and heat development. Soil should be a loose, well-draining sandy-loam at around pH 6.5, with phosphorus and calcium worked in. Avoid heavy nitrogen feeds, as they push leafy growth and cut fruit production noticeably. Water consistently and moderately, since soil should stay moist, not wet. Apply a layer of mulch over the bed to retain moisture and keep soil temperature stable during summer heat spikes.

Cayenne Pepper plants that get loaded with fruit sometimes need a simple stake or trellis to avoid stem damage. Pick pods at full red for maximum heat; green pods give a milder result. For drying, hang fully ripe red pods in small bunches somewhere dry and ventilated for 3–4 weeks.