Aji Dulce peppers, whose name translates to “sweet chili pepper” in Spanish, offer a unique flavor profile. These peppers provide a sweet, fruity, and often smoky taste with very little to no heat, typically ranging from 0 to 1,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU). Their aromatic qualities and mildness make them a popular ingredient in Caribbean and Latin American cuisines, particularly in dishes like sofrito, a flavorful base for many traditional meals.
Starting Aji Dulce Seeds
Beginning Aji Dulce peppers from seed requires attention to warmth and moisture for successful germination. Sow seeds indoors approximately 8 to 10 weeks before the last anticipated frost date. Plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep in a seed-starting mix, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Optimal germination occurs when soil temperatures are maintained between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, often achieved using a heat mat. Seeds typically sprout within 7 to 10 days. Once seedlings emerge, provide them with ample light and maintain daytime temperatures around 70 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Before transplanting outdoors after the last frost, gradually acclimate the young plants to outdoor conditions through hardening off.
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
Aji Dulce peppers thrive in locations that receive full sun, ideally at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. In extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent stress. The plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
Amending the soil with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, improves fertility and drainage. Aji Dulce peppers are well-suited for container growing. When growing in containers, select pots at least 16 inches in diameter with adequate drainage holes, and use a quality potting mix.
Ongoing Care for Aji Dulce Plants
Consistent watering is important for Aji Dulce peppers, as they require evenly moist soil to support fruit development. While they can tolerate some drought, lack of water can negatively impact fruiting and may lead to issues like blossom end rot. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot, and ensure proper drainage, especially in containers. Mulching around the plants helps to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Aji Dulce plants benefit from regular fertilization once established. During the growing season, as plants begin to flower and set fruit, apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks. Fertilizers with lower nitrogen and higher phosphorus and potassium are recommended to promote fruit production. These peppers flourish in warm conditions, with ideal daytime temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. As the plants become laden with fruit, providing support through staking or cages can prevent branches from breaking and keep peppers off the ground.
Managing Pests and Diseases
Aji Dulce peppers, like other pepper varieties, can encounter common garden pests such as aphids and spider mites. Regular inspection of plants, particularly the undersides of leaves, can help detect infestations early. Organic-friendly solutions like insecticidal soap or neem oil can effectively manage these pests. Ensuring good air circulation around plants can also deter certain pest populations.
Diseases like blight or powdery mildew can affect pepper plants. Practicing good garden hygiene, including removing affected plant parts and ensuring adequate spacing between plants, helps to prevent disease spread. Rotating crops each season can also reduce the buildup of soil-borne pathogens.
Harvesting Aji Dulce Peppers
Aji Dulce peppers are ready for harvest between 90 and 100 days after transplanting. Ripeness involves a color change from green to shades of orange, yellow, or red. While they can be used when green for a sharper flavor, their full sweet and smoky notes develop as they ripen to their mature color.
To harvest, use sharp shears or a knife to cut the pepper from the plant, leaving a small portion of the stem attached. This helps to avoid damaging the plant and reduces the risk of introducing diseases. Picking peppers as soon as they ripen encourages the plant to produce more fruit throughout the growing season. Freshly harvested Aji Dulce peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, or they can be frozen for longer preservation.