Question
QUESTION: Why are the jalapeno peppers I grow not hot?  I've tried harvesting when they are young, and when they are mature, but still no heat.

ANSWER: Ann:

The jalapeno pepper is not a hot pepper. It is 2500 on the Scoville scale. If you want them hotter wait until they turn red. Remeber the hotness comes from the membrane that holds the seeds together.

Best wishes.

Don

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: the jalapenos I buy at the market have a fair amount of heat.  Mine that I've grown, even when harvested when red, are as mild as a sweet bell pepper even with the membrane and seeds.  I've tried buying seedlings from different suppliers and every year get the same results.  My cherry peppers are hot, but they don't have the same flavor as a good jalapeno, so I'd really like to figure this out.  Any other thoughts?

Answer
Ann:

When you plant again try the F1 Macho. This is the best hybrid jalapeno seed that I have found. You should not use any seeds that are not hybrid. Left over seeds loose their hybrid features. If you like a hotter pepper try the habanara.

Best wishes.

Don