Capsicum annuum
This is my favorite strain of small Thai chilis, because plants are incredibly productive. Compact plants are smothered in small peppers (averaging 100–200 peppers per plant) that are super easy to dry. I like to gift the dried whole peppers in cute jars. These have long been listed as a Thai heirloom, but they are smaller compared to traditional 2-inch Thai peppers (see Adaptive Early Thai). These are more like tobasco-type chilis in shape (IMO), about 1/2 to 1 inch, but they pack a punch!
Expected Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) range: 50,000–100,000.
As you can probably tell, I find peppers and tomatoes just as addicting as flowers! My personal pepper collection has grown to insane levels, so narrowing down the PBF seed selection was a challenge, but I've included all of my absolute favorites. From early and reliable varieties to incredibly rare heirlooms in every shape and color imaginable—super sweet to exceptionally spicy, complex and smokey to bright and citrusy, let's go!
Packet contains approximately 10 seeds.
DETAILS
Plant type: Annual
Pepper type: Thai
Days to maturity: 85 days
Light preference: Full sun
Plant spacing: 12–18” apart in rows 24–36”
Hybrid status: Open pollinated
SOWING
Depth: 1/4 inch
Germination: 80–90°F
How to Grow
Sow indoors 8–10 weeks before transplanting out after danger of frost. Pepper seeds germinate very slowly in cooler soil. When the first true leaves appear, transplant seedlings into 4" pots, bury deeply up to leaves. Grow plants at approx. 70°F day and 60°F nights. At transplant, ideal seedlings have buds, but no open flowers.
Cold treatment information from Johnny's: "Exposing the seedlings to controlled cold treatments can increase the number of flowers and fruits. When the third true leaf appears, grow the plants at a minimum night temperature of 53-55°F (12-13°C) for 4 weeks. The plants should receive full sunlight. After 4 weeks adjust temperature to 70°F (21°C) day and night. If this technique is used, peppers should be seeded 1-2 weeks earlier than usual."
Harvest & Storage
Harvest peppers promptly when they reach full size to encourage further fruit set. Wash and store at 45°F and 95% relative humidity.
SHIPPING
FREE: $100 or more on any seeds
$3.95: 1–9 seed packets
$7.95: 10+ seed packets
