Web Special Ghost Pepper
Bhut Jolokia
For everyone who loves fiery chiles, we have just obtained a s...
For everyone who loves fiery chiles, we have just obtained a small quantity of fresh new seeds for Bhut Jolokia "Ghost Pepper" from the New Mexico Chile Pepper Institute.
Now listed in the Guinness Book of World Records, this super incendiary chile sets new standards for heat: Ghost Peppers tested at an unbelievable 1 million Scoville heat units. That's well over twice the heat of our ultra-fiery Red Savina habaneros and 200 times hotter than our Jalapenos!
Now you can grow these legendary ultra fiery chiles yourself. Remember that chile heat levels vary depending on climate – the hotter and more brutal your summer weather, the more heat your chiles have.
STARTING SEEDLINGS
In early spring, start indoors about 2 months before night temperatures reliably reach 50-55F (10-13C). Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep moist but not soggy, and very warm 80-85F (26-29C). Provide a strong light source.
These super hot chiles take longer to germinate (8-21 days) than many other pepper varieties. Be patient and remember: keep the seed starting container consistently warm and moist but not soggy while waiting for emergence.
When seedlings are 2 inches tall, transplant 2-3 inches apart into deeper containers. Maintain at 70-75F (21-24C) and feed every 2 weeks with half-strength liquid fertilizer until weather is warm enough to gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions.
Transplant 2 feet apart into rich, well-amended soil in full sun.
GROWING NOTES
Ghost Pepper chiles need very warm conditions. Don’t transplant outdoors until night temps stay securely above 55F (13C). Prepare soil well with aged manure or compost. Mulch plants to maintain even soil moisture. Keep well weeded and watered, and fertilize every 2 weeks throughout the growing season.
HEAT LEVELS
Chile “heat” varies depending on climate: the hotter and more brutal your summer weather, the more spicy-hot your Ghost Pepper chile crop will taste. Even if your chiles don’t reach Guinness record levels, they will certainly be conversation stoppers!
WARNING!
Ghost Peppers can reach 1 million-plus on the Scoville Heat Scale, almost twice as hot as Red Savina Habaneros!
Wear eye protection AND gloves while handling hot chiles.
Avoid prolonged skin exposure. Use VERY VERY sparingly.