Kung Pao Chili Pepper Seeds

Grow Kung Pao chili peppers for a fresh supply of bold heat in the home garden. Use the peppers fresh in salads, soups, sauces, and Asian-inspired dishes, or dry them and crush them into flakes or powder for seasoning.

At a glance

• Variety: Kung Pao chili pepper
• Type: Hot pepper
• Growth habit: Annual
• Available sizes: 10, 25, 100, or 1,000 seeds

Start seeds indoors

Sow seeds about ¼ inch deep in warm seed-starting mix. Peppers may germinate in about a week, though sprouting can take up to a month. Keep the mix warm, evenly moist, and well ventilated. Transplant outdoors only after the soil is warm and frost danger has passed.

Grow and care

Choose a sheltered spot with full sun to partial shade and fertile, well-drained soil. Harden seedlings off gradually over one to two weeks before planting out. Water deeply during hot, dry spells. Kung Pao peppers can also be grown in a roomy container with good drainage.

Harvest and enjoy

Pick mature peppers with clean scissors or pruners to avoid damaging the plant. Use fresh in cooked or raw dishes, or dry the harvest and grind or crush it for a convenient pantry seasoning. Wear gloves when handling hot peppers, wash hands afterward, and avoid touching your eyes or face.