The ‘Basket of Fire’ pepper (Capsicum annuum ‘Basket of Fire’) is an ornamental variety known for its compact growth and prolific production of vibrant, multi-colored fruits. These small peppers transition through shades of cream, yellow, orange, and red as they mature, often displaying all colors simultaneously on a single plant, creating a visually striking “basket” effect. They are edible, with a heat level around 80,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU), making them significantly hotter than a jalapeño.
Growing Basket of Fire Peppers
Planting and Soil
Start ‘Basket of Fire’ peppers from seed indoors about 10 weeks before the last expected ground frost. Sow seeds in a well-draining, damp seed-sowing mix, covering them lightly. Maintain a temperature between 18-25°C (64-77°F) for germination, which usually occurs within 7-10 days. Once seedlings develop two sets of true leaves, transplant them into individual pots.
‘Basket of Fire’ peppers thrive in well-draining, fertile potting mixes. Container growing is recommended due to their compact, semi-trailing habit. Use a good quality potting soil, which provides necessary structure and nutrients. A container allowing for adequate root development is beneficial, as plants can spread about 20 inches.
Light and Water
‘Basket of Fire’ peppers require full sun exposure, needing at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for robust growth and fruit production. While they can tolerate some afternoon shade in extremely hot climates, consistent sunlight is ideal. Ample light encourages prolific flowering and fruiting.
Consistent moisture is important for container-grown peppers. Water regularly, especially during flowering and fruiting periods, ensuring the soil remains consistently damp but not waterlogged. Check soil moisture by inserting a finger about an inch deep; if it feels dry, it is time to water. Avoid overwatering, as peppers do not tolerate standing water.
Fertilization and Container Care
‘Basket of Fire’ peppers benefit from regular fertilization, especially when grown in containers where nutrients leach quickly. Once plants flower and set fruit, switch to a fertilizer rich in potassium or a balanced liquid feed. Many organic fertilizers formulated for tomatoes also work well for peppers.
Apply a soluble fertilizer every one to two weeks at half strength. Avoid fertilizers too high in nitrogen once flowering begins, as this promotes foliage growth over fruit development. Ensure good airflow around container plants to prevent fungal issues, and proper drainage holes are crucial to prevent root rot.
Harvesting and Culinary Uses
‘Basket of Fire’ peppers produce hundreds of small, conical fruits, typically 1-2 inches long, that mature in a stunning array of colors. They begin as creamy white or deep purple, then progress through yellow and orange before ripening to a bright scarlet red. Harvest them at any color stage, but their flavor and heat intensify as they ripen to red. Fruit set typically occurs within 90 days of planting, with harvesting possible from July through October.
To harvest, gently cut or twist the peppers from the plant to avoid damaging the branches. With a Scoville rating of approximately 80,000 SHU, these peppers offer significant heat. They are versatile in the kitchen; use them fresh in salsas, stir-fries, or curries. They are also well-suited for drying, making hot sauces, infusing oils, or creating pepper flakes and jams.
Common Growing Challenges
‘Basket of Fire’ peppers can encounter a few common growing challenges. Blossom end rot, a dark, sunken spot on the fruit, often indicates a calcium deficiency or inconsistent watering. Maintain consistent soil moisture and ensure adequate calcium in fertilizer to prevent this. Yellowing leaves may point to nutrient deficiencies, especially nitrogen, or overwatering.
Pest issues include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Inspect the undersides of leaves regularly for early detection. A strong spray of water can dislodge pests, while insecticidal soap manages severe infestations. Fungal diseases, like powdery mildew, can appear in humid conditions or with poor air circulation. Provide good airflow around plants and avoid overhead watering to mitigate these issues.