Minimum Seed Count: 10

 

The Aji Lemon is a vibrant Peruvian pepper beloved for its striking yellow pods and bright, citrusy flavor. Also known as the Lemon Drop, this variety produces slender, slightly wrinkled peppers about 2–3 inches long that ripen from green to a glowing lemon yellow.

With a heat level ranging from 15,000–30,000 Scoville Heat Units, it delivers a zesty kick similar to a cayenne but with a unique fruity, lemon-like tang. The flavor is crisp, clean, and refreshingly sharp, making it perfect for fresh salsas, ceviche, pickling, or drying into a golden powder.

The plants are highly productive, often covered in dozens of pods at once, and thrive in both gardens and containers. Their ornamental look, paired with their culinary versatility, makes the Aji Lemon a favorite among chili enthusiasts worldwide.

 

🌱 Planting Guide:

Start Indoors:

• Sow seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before your last frost date.

• Plant seeds ¼ inch deep in a light, well-draining seed-starting mix.

• Keep soil temps around 75–85°F for best germination.

• Seeds typically sprout in 10–20 days.

Transplanting:

• Harden off seedlings once nighttime temps stay above 55°F.

• Transplant into the garden or large containers after frost danger has passed.

• Space plants 18–24 inches apart in full sun.

Soil & Water:

• Prefers rich, well-draining soil with added compost or organic matter.

• Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy.

• Mulching helps conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Care:

• Plants grow tall and bushy—staking may be needed to support heavy yields.

• Fertilize every 2–3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer or one slightly higher in potassium for better fruiting.

• Pinching early growth tips can encourage bushier plants and more pods.

Harvest:

• Pods ripen from green to a bright lemon yellow at 2–3 inches long.

• Pick frequently to encourage continuous production.

• Great for fresh eating, pickling, or drying into powder.

Heat Level:

• 15,000–30,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU) – medium-hot, similar to cayenne but with a bright, citrusy flavor.