Deutsch
The stalk of the Cola de Rata pepper grows to a height of 90-120 cm. The leaves are green, and the flowers are white. After transplanting, it takes about 75-80 days to harvest the first fruits. The peppers turn from green to red as they ripen. They are typically 5 to 8 cm long, slim, and elongated with a slightly pointed tip. The skin of these peppers is thin. Each plant produces 20-50 fruits. These peppers are widely used in traditional Mexican cuisine. They are often used whole and dried, retaining their reddish color even after drying, which makes them appealing to chefs. The peppers have a mild heat and a smoky aroma with a subtle acidic finish. They can also be consumed fresh in various cocktails, salsas, and salads, and are suitable for pickling.
Growing Conditions
Sowing Time: Mid to late February
Light Requirements: Plant seedlings in a fully sunny location without excessive shade.
Germination Time: 10-25 days
Optimal Sowing Temperature: 25-29°C
Planting: Seedlings are transplanted directly into the soil or large pots at temperatures above 18°C, typically from mid to late May in our climate. The optimal daily temperature during vegetation is 18-24°C, and nighttime temperatures should be 16-18°C.
Pot Size: If planting in pots, they should have a minimum capacity of 12 liters.
Spacing Within Rows: 30-60 cm between plants
Spacing Between Rows: 60-90 cm
Watering: In the field, watering depends on rainfall; during dry periods, water at least once a week. For potted peppers, water as needed when the substrate at root level is dry.
Fertilization: From transplanting until flowering, apply fertilizer once a week via foliar spraying with a formulation of 19:6:20. During flowering until the end of harvest, use a formulation of 15:5:30.
