Anaheim Green Chili seeds
Originally developed around 1913 by Fabien Garcia, the Anaheim green chili is a staple in New Mexico, California, and Colorado Latin dishes. Fabien had grown these in New Mexico, then moved to California and started growing them commercially in the Anaheim area, hence the name.
Anaheim chilis can reach 6" long. If these are harvested while they are green, you will get to enjoy their grassier notes. If left red, the flavor is more robust and earthy. Green chilis are great for making pork or vegetarian green chili, rajas, chilaquiles, chili Relleno (stuffed chili), enchiladas Verde, flautas, and many many more.
These are mild and great for folks who don't prefer overly spicy food. These are similar to the spice level of a poblano. Green chilis are great for fire roasting as well. You can roast your own over a gas burner on your stove, or on the broil setting for a few minutes in your oven.
These do exceedingly well in containers, as long as they are 5 gallons or more. They love the hot summer weather and require little attention. They are also drought-tolerant.
*These do need soil temperatures of 80 - 85 degrees in order to germinate. A heat mat or germination mat is encouraged if starting indoors.
Scoville: 500 - 1000Seed count: 20
Botanic name:
Capsicum annuum
Plant spacing:
18-36 inches apart
Color:
Chilis will be bright green if harvested early, but will turn dark red if left on the stem.
Sowing depth:
1/4 inch deep
Sun requirements:
Full sun
Utilization:
Green chilis are popular flame-roasted and made into green chili. These can also be stuffed (chili Relleno), breaded and deep-fried, smoked, dried, or diced up and used in salsas.
Frost Hardy:
No
Maturity days:
75 - 80 days
Life cycle:
Perennial in warm areas, annual in colder zones. These can overwinter.
Can I start indoors:
Yes
Container friendly:
Yes
Other names:
Chile Verde Del Norte, California Green Chile, Big Jim Chile Pepper
Scoville Units:
Growing Instructions:
Indoor Seed Starting
Gather Your Supplies:
- High-quality seed starting mix
- Seed trays or small pots
- Chili and pepper seeds of your choice
- Germination mat or heat mat
- Grow lights (if natural light is insufficient)
- Labels and a pen for plant identification
Sow the Seeds:
Fill your trays or pots with damp seed starting mix.
Make small indentations about ¼ inch deep. Place a couple of seeds in each hole.
Gently cover the seeds with a thin layer of mix and mist with water.
Provide Consistent Warmth:
This is the most important aspect! Chili and pepper seeds germinate best with soil temperatures between 75-85°F (24-29°C).
Place your seed trays on the germination mat to maintain the optimal temperature.
Maintain Moisture:
Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Use a spray bottle to mist the soil.Consider placing a humidity dome or plastic wrap over the trays to retain moisture.
Provide Light:
Once the seedlings emerge, provide them with plenty of light.
If using grow lights, keep them a few inches above the seedlings, adjusting their height as they grow.
Outdoor Seed Starting:
Timing is Crucial:
Peppers and chilies thrive in warm weather. Start your seeds outdoors only after the last frost risk has passed, and soil temperatures remain consistently warm.
Prepare the Soil:
Choose a sunny, well-drained spot in your garden.
Amend the soil with compost to boost its fertility.
Direct Sow Your Seeds
Follow the seed packet instructions for spacing.
Sow the seeds at the recommended depth and cover them lightly with soil.Water them thoroughly.
Hardening Off (For Indoor-Started Plants):
Before transplanting indoor-started seedlings outdoors, gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions over a period of 7-10 days.
Start by placing them in a sheltered spot with partial shade for a few hours daily. Gradually increase their exposure to direct sunlight and wind.
Additional Tips:
Spacing: Plant spacing will vary depending on the chili or pepper variety. Research the specific needs of your chosen varieties.
Drought Tolerance: While chili and pepper plants are relatively drought tolerant, they will perform best with regular watering, especially during flowering and fruiting.
Container Growing: Chili and pepper plants thrive in containers. Choose a pot that's appropriately sized for the mature plant.
