Cayenne pepper is a well-known variety that produces long, slender red fruits with a pronounced spiciness. Highly productive and versatile, it is enjoyed fresh, dried, or ground, and grows very well in vegetable gardens or containers under Quebec conditions.

2. Sowing

Difficulty level : Moderately easy
Sowing type : Indoor sowing 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost (February to March in zones 5-6)
Sowing technique : In pots or in cell trays
Sowing depth : ~ 5 mm
Germination time : 7 to 14 days
Germination temperature : 24 to 28 C

3. Culture

Ease of cultivation : Moderately easy
Growing season : Warm season
Transplantation : Easy, after all risk of frost has passed and when the nights are warm.
Plant spacing : ~ 40 to 50 cm between plants
Distance between rows : ~ 60 to 75 cm
Hardiness zone : Non-hardy annual plant
Light : Full sun
Soil type : Rich, loose and well-drained soil
Soil pH : Slightly acidic to neutral
Soil moisture : Keep the soil consistently moist.
Soil fertility : Requires compost
Time before harvest : Approximately 70 to 80 days after transplanting
Watering : Regular, avoid water stress
Other characteristics : The more the fruit ripens, the more intense the spiciness becomes; excellent container production

4. Usage

Used fresh, dried, or ground into powder, cayenne pepper enhances sauces, marinades, stews, and spicy recipes. A must-have for lovers of fiery flavors.

5. Apprenticeship

Companion plants : Basil, onion, carrot, parsley
Nefarious plants : Fennel, cabbage