The Lemon Drop pepper plant (Capsicum baccatum) is a unique chili variety known for its vibrant yellow color and citrusy heat. Originally from South America, especially Peru, this pepper is a favorite among gardeners and spice lovers. With its fruity, tangy flavor and medium heat, it works well in hot sauces, salsas, and even as a dried spice.
If you're considering adding Lemon Drop peppers to your garden, this guide covers everything you need to know, from planting to harvesting.
Why Grow Lemon Drop Peppers?
✔️ Distinct Flavor – A combination of citrus notes and moderate heat (30,000 to 50,000 Scoville Heat Units).
✔️ High Yield – Produces abundant yellow pods throughout the season.
✔️ Versatile Growth – Suitable for garden beds and container planting.
✔️ Resistant to Pests – Generally more resilient to common pepper pests.
How to Grow Lemon Drop Pepper Plants
1. Starting from Seeds
- Begin Indoors Early: Start seeds 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost in your region.
- Maintain Warmth: The ideal soil temperature for germination is 75°F to 85°F (24°C–29°C).
- Planting Depth: Sow seeds about ¼ inch deep in a seed-starting mix with good drainage.
- Provide Light: Seedlings need 12 to 16 hours of light daily from a grow light or sunny window.
📌 Germination Time: Expect seedlings to emerge in 10 to 21 days if conditions are optimal.
2. Transplanting Outdoors
Once seedlings reach about 6 to 8 inches tall with strong leaves, they are ready for outdoor planting.
- Acclimate the Plants: Gradually expose them to outdoor conditions for about a week.
- Select a Sunny Location: Lemon Drop peppers require at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Soil Preparation: Use well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
- Spacing Matters: Keep plants 18 to 24 inches apart for proper airflow.
- Mulching: Applying mulch helps retain moisture and control weeds.
3. Caring for Lemon Drop Peppers
✅ Watering
- Water deeply but not excessively, allowing the soil to dry slightly between watering.
- Keep leaves dry to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
✅ Fertilizing
- At transplanting, use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) or compost.
- Once flowering begins, switch to a low-nitrogen fertilizer to support fruit production.
✅ Providing Support
- These plants can grow up to 3 feet tall, so using stakes or cages prevents branches from bending.
✅ Managing Pests & Diseases
- Watch for aphids and whiteflies—use neem oil or insecticidal soap if necessary.
- Good airflow and proper spacing help prevent fungal infections like powdery mildew.
Harvesting & Using Lemon Drop Peppers
🌟 When to Harvest
- Peppers change from green to bright yellow when fully ripe.
- Harvesting typically occurs 80 to 100 days after transplanting.
🌟 How to Harvest
- Use scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.
- Regular picking encourages continued fruit production.
🌟 Ways to Use Lemon Drop Peppers
✔️ Fresh in salsas and salads for a zesty kick.
✔️ Dried and ground into chili flakes or powder.
✔️ Infused into oils or vinegars for enhanced flavor.
✔️ Fermented into hot sauce for a tangy, spicy condiment.
Tips for Growing Success
✔️ Start seeds early to maximize the growing season.
✔️ Ensure plants receive adequate warmth and sunlight.
✔️ Use well-draining soil and water consistently.
✔️ Adjust fertilizer at different growth stages for better yields.
✔️ Harvest when fully ripe for the best flavor.
The Lemon Drop pepper plant is an excellent addition to any garden, offering bright yellow fruits, citrusy spice, and high productivity. Whether used fresh, dried, or in sauces, this pepper is a flavorful and rewarding choice for growers of all experience levels.