Question
I would like some info on how to grow a habanero plant

Answer
Diane, habaneros are cared for the same as the bell pepper. The key is planting them in good soil. I amend my soil every fall and spring with organic matter, including compost, aged manure, peat moss, and shredded leaves. I then work these materials into the soil.

You can either purchase seeds and sow the peppers indoors, or you can purchase seedlings from your local garden center. I always plant my peppers two weeks after the last expected frost. It is very important that the soil be warm to avoid transplant shock. Once transplanted, be sure to mulch the plants with straw or shredded leaves. Mulch helps retain moisture and keeps the soil at a moderate temperature.

Peppers do not like excessive watering. Too much water saturates the roots which makes it difficult for the plants to draw in oxygen and nutrients. It also depletes the soil of nitrogen and phosphorus. Peppers generally need 1" of water per week.

Once the plants have reached one foot tall, you can start supplementing their feeding with a water-soluable fertilizer high in phosphorus. If you are not familiar with the nutrient ratio, these are the three numbers listed on the front of fertilizer packages. The first number represents nitrogen, which is required for green foliage; the second number is the percentage of phosphorus, needed for blossoming and fruit production; the third number is the ratio of potassium, the nutrient required for strong root growth. The ideal ratio for peppers is 10-20-20. Avoid fertilizers with high ratios of nitrogen or else you will have beautiful foliage at the expense of a good harvest. Fertilize once every 14 days through early fall.

Finally, be sure to harvest continually. Doing so stimulates the plant to produce more peppers.

I hope this answered your question. Please write again if I can ever be of assistance.

Regards,

Mike