The Hottest Peppers to Grow: Carolina Reaper and Beyond

Every year, the title of the hottest pepper changes, but if you’re looking for the current leaders in the spiciness race, the Carolina Reaper, Dorset Naga Chocolate 7-Pot Armageddon Pepper, X Komodo Dragon, and Craig's Chocolate Champion take the stage. As someone who has not only grown but also sold the plants and the fruit, you can easily acquire seeds for these top contenders. The seed prices may be a bit on the high side, especially for Carolina Reapers, but the results are worth it, and they're not too difficult to grow.

Carolina Reaper: The Champion of Spiciness

Carolina Reaper, the reigning champ of spiciness, has been officially certified as the hottest pepper. Its heat is well-documented, with an average Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) of over 1.5 million. Despite the competition from emerging contenders, Carolina Reaper continues to reign as the king of hot peppers. The seeds for this pepper can be quite expensive; you can expect to pay 5-10 seeds for as little as $5, but the heat and flavor are unparalleled.

Emerging Pepper Giants: Dorset Naga Chocolate and Craig's Chocolate Champion

Two towering contenders in the world of extremely hot peppers are the Dorset Naga Chocolate and the Craig's Chocolate Champion. These peppers, though not yet officially crowned, show a lot of promise. The Dorset Naga Chocolate, as its name suggests, combines the spiciness of the Naga with a rich chocolate flavor. It is a relatively new variety, and as such, it may still be a bit challenging to find seeds. Similarly, Craig's Chocolate Champion, a dark chocolatey pepper with a fiery kick, is cultivated with the same care and attention to detail.

Mastering the Growing Conditions

Regardless of which one you choose, these peppers are a member of the nightshade family and require similar growing conditions to tomatoes and eggplants. The key to achieving consistent heat levels in your peppers is to maintain a regular watering schedule. Generally, less water leads to a milder pepper, while more water can result in a spicier pepper. The difference in spiciness can vary from a few thousand Scoville units, making it worth experimenting with different levels of hydration to find your ideal heat level.

Germination and Planting Tips

Germinating pepper seeds is a straightforward process. Start by sowing the seeds in a warm spot with good lighting. Once the seedlings have emerged, they are ready to be transplanted into larger pots. The key during germination is to keep the soil consistently moist and provide adequate heat. After germination, ensure the plants receive plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil with balanced fertilizers. These peppers thrive in a pH range between 6.0 and 7.0, ensuring they have the right conditions to grow strong and spicy.

Conclusion

So, which is the hottest pepper to grow? While the title constantly changes, Carolina Reaper remains a top contender, followed closely by the likes of Dorset Naga Chocolate, X Komodo Dragon, and Craig's Chocolate Champion. These peppers not only pack a punch but also bring unique flavors and characteristics to your garden. With the right care and attention, you can cultivate these speedy peppers and enjoy their fiery fruits in your kitchen or garden.