When to harvest Jalapenos

[buzzingtalk]

I have a lovely jalapeno plant, and I'm not sure when my lovely chillis will be ready.

They are all good size, normal jalapeno green, apart from one at the bottom of the plant which is now turning a lovely red. So are these ready to be harvested as green jalapenos now they are turning? And can you dry them out on a string, or is it best to eat them fresh?

Also, what do I do with my jalapeno plant - I'd love to overwinter it, but its a bit too big and I'd like to know if you can 'trim' the roots and branches and put it in a smaller pot for saving.

Thanks!

[Snadger]

Jalapeno's are usually harvested when they are green but are perfectly acceptable when red.
Pickling or freezing is the usual way of storage!

[buzzingtalk]

With freezing, do they go soggy? and I don't know if I really have enough to warrant picking them, unless it is an easy thing to do!

[Rabidbun]

They do go a little soggy in the freezer, yes, but last for ages. I usually give them a quick rinse under the tap straight from the freezer and chop them at that point (rather than letting them defrost fully) to use in things.

[Two_Sheds]

I don't know if I really have enough to warrant picking them, unless it is an easy thing to do!

It is easy, and addictive. Go and have a look in the preserving forum, where there are plenty of recipes.

If you don't have enough jalapenos, pickle them with something else. I've done mixed jars of sliced onion, cucumber, courgette, carrot & chilli. To be used as "salad" in the winter on a jacket potato