Sunscald is a common issue for many garden fruits, including jalapeno peppers. This physiological disorder occurs when fruit is exposed to excessive sunlight and high temperatures.
What is Sunscald on Jalapenos
Sunscald on jalapeno peppers appears as light-colored patches on the fruit’s surface, on the sun-exposed side. These spots can become thin, papery, or blistered. As sunscald progresses, the damaged tissue may dry out, appearing sunken. Affected areas can soften, becoming susceptible to secondary infections like mold or bacteria, which leads to rotting or splitting.
Why Jalapenos Get Sunscald
Jalapenos develop sunscald when fruits are suddenly exposed to intense, direct sunlight and high temperatures. This often happens after cloudy weather or when plants are transplanted without proper acclimatization. Young peppers with less-developed skin are especially vulnerable.
Insufficient leaf cover also contributes to sunscald. This can be caused by heavy pruning, pest damage, or plant diseases that reduce natural shading foliage. Drought stress can also cause plants to wilt, further exposing fruits.
Preventing Jalapeno Sunscald
Providing adequate shade prevents sunscald. Use shade cloth during the hottest parts of the day, especially when temperatures climb above 90°F. Alternatively, plant taller, faster-growing plants like sunflowers or okra nearby for natural shade during peak sun hours.
Consistent watering helps jalapeno plants withstand heat and stress, preventing wilting. Jalapenos prefer evenly moist soil, requiring about 1 to 2 inches of water per week, with more frequent watering during hot, dry periods. Deep watering ensures moisture reaches the roots, and allowing the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings helps prevent root issues.
Promoting healthy, bushy foliage is another effective preventive measure, as dense leaves naturally shade the peppers. Proper plant spacing (12 to 24 inches) ensures good air circulation and ample leaf development. Fertilizing with a balanced organic fertilizer early encourages robust leaf growth, providing a better canopy. Managing pests and diseases promptly also helps maintain a full canopy.
Gradually acclimating seedlings to outdoor conditions, known as “hardening off,” is crucial before transplanting. This involves slowly increasing their exposure to direct sunlight, wind, and varying temperatures over one to two weeks. Starting with a few hours in a sheltered, shady spot and progressively increasing time in the sun helps plants develop a protective waxy layer.
Applying mulch around the base of plants also helps prevent sunscald. Mulch, such as straw, shredded paper, or grass clippings, retains soil moisture by reducing evaporation and helps regulate soil temperature, keeping roots cool. This contributes to a healthier plant better equipped to handle sun exposure.
Eating Sunscalded Jalapenos
Sunscalded jalapenos are generally safe to eat, as the damage itself is not harmful. The affected part might have an unappetizing texture, becoming leathery or soft. If no secondary rot or mold has developed, the pepper can still be consumed.
Inspect the pepper for any signs of decay, such as mushy spots or visible mold. If present, cut away the affected portion. If damage is extensive and has led to widespread spoilage, discard the pepper entirely.