Fertilizing Jalapeño Peppers
NPK ratios, organic vs synthetic options, and when to feed your jalapeño plants at each growth stage.
10-10-10
Early growth NPK
5-10-10
Flowering NPK
2-3 wks
Feeding interval
Quick Answer
Use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) when transplanting, switch to a higher-phosphorus formula (5-10-10) once flowers appear, and feed every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
Understanding NPK Ratios
NPK stands for Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K). During early growth, jalapeños benefit from balanced or slightly nitrogen-heavy fertilizer to develop foliage. Once flowering begins, reduce nitrogen and increase phosphorus to encourage fruit production. Too much nitrogen during fruiting leads to lots of leaves but few peppers.
Key Principle
Feeding Schedule
- At transplanting:Mix a balanced slow-release fertilizer into the soil.
- Weeks 2-6:Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
- Flowering and beyond:Switch to a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer (like 5-10-10 or a tomato formula) every 2 weeks.
Stop fertilizing 2-3 weeks before your expected last harvest.
Organic vs. Synthetic
Organic options (compost, fish emulsion, bone meal, kelp) release nutrients slowly and improve soil health over time. Synthetic fertilizers provide faster results but don't build soil structure. For most home gardeners, a combination works well: amend soil with compost at planting and supplement with liquid fertilizer during the season.