Espelette pepper - organic-seeds

Espelette pepper

The Piment d'Espelette is an early-maturing, productive, and vigorous chili variety with a mild heat level (4/10 on the Scoville scale). Originating from the Basque Country, this pepper is prized for its deep red, long, and slender fruits with a rich aroma.

🛍️ Sowing period: February - March
🌞 Location: Full sun, well-ventilated
📅 Harvest period: July - October
🔥 Spiciness: 4/10 Scoville

Growing Tips for Piment d'Espelette

Sowing & Germination 🌱

✔ Start seeds indoors in February-March at a constant temperature of 23-24°C.
✔ Provide a warm, humid environment and water regularly. Some peppers need temperatures above 25°C to germinate.
✔ Transplant seedlings into pots once they have 3-4 true leaves.
✔ Move plants outdoors after the last frost, burying the stem like tomatoes for better root development.
✔ In cooler climates (north of the Loire), greenhouse cultivation is recommended. If growing outdoors, choose a sunny, sheltered spot, like against a wall.

Plant Care & Growth 🌿

✔ Soil: Well-drained, rich in organic matter. Improve with compost or aged manure.
✔ Watering: Keep soil moist but not soggy. Avoid prolonged dry spells.
✔ Pruning: In colder regions, prune the main stem when the plant has about 10 fruits. Pinch side shoots after the last fruit.
✔ Support: Some varieties may grow tall and require staking.
✔ Fertilization: Feed with organic fertilizers or foliar sprays like diluted nettle manure.

Common Diseases 🦠

Powdery mildew can affect pepper plants. Prevent it by:
✔ Crop rotation and good air circulation
✔ Keeping leaves dry during watering
✔ Treating with nettle or horsetail tea
✔ Using seaweed powder as a natural fungicide

Harvesting & Storage 🍽️

✔ Harvest from July to October (5-6 months after sowing).
✔ Green peppers can be picked early, but fully ripe red peppers have the most intense flavor.
✔ Ideal for drying or using fresh in Basque cuisine.

💚 Perfect for spice lovers seeking mild yet flavorful heat