pepper - ancho poblano

A native to Mexico, Ancho Poblano has been cultivated for 9,000 years. This heart-shaped heirloom pepper is actually well known under two different names. "Poblano" is the fresh version and is excellent stuffed or roasted. "Ancho" is the dried version, often used as chili powder. Ancho / Poblano Pepper is a mild to medium chili pepper that is commonly used in Mexican cuisine, and other spicy dishes. It is the most commonly used variety for chile rellenos and mole. Can be challenging to germinate; 60-70% germination rate is considered excellent for this variety. Packet includes 40-50 seeds.

Ancho Poblano Pepper
Capsicum annuum

Why Grow Ancho Poblano Peppers?

• Ancient Mexican heirloom variety cultivated for thousands of years
• Versatile fruit: fresh green poblanos are perfect for roasting and stuffing, while dried anchos make rich chili powder
• The ultimate choice for traditional chile rellenos and authentic mole sauces
• Mild to medium heat profile with rich, earthy flavor
• Scoville rating of approximately 4,000 units
• Approximately 40-50 seeds per packet

How to Grow Ancho Poblano Peppers from Seed

Start Ancho Poblano pepper seeds indoors approximately 8 weeks before your last expected spring frost. Because germination can be slow and challenging, using a seedling heating mat to keep soil warm is recommended.

Sow seeds about 6 mm (1/4 inch) deep in a quality seed-starting mix and keep consistently warm and moist until germination occurs.

Provide seedlings with plenty of bright light once they emerge. Before planting outdoors, gradually harden off the seedlings. Transplant into the garden or large containers only after all danger of frost has passed and outdoor conditions, soil, and nighttime temperatures have thoroughly warmed.

Water consistently, particularly during hot summer days and fruit development, while avoiding prolonged waterlogged conditions.

Growing Ancho Poblano Peppers in Canada

Poblano peppers require a warm growing season, so Canadian gardeners will get the best results by starting seeds indoors well ahead of the last frost.

Avoid transplanting outdoors too early. Pepper plants are sensitive to cold snaps and perform best once both the soil and nighttime temperatures have thoroughly warmed up for the season.

For detailed instructions covering seed starting, transplanting, spacing, watering, and harvesting, read our Complete Guide to Growing Peppers in Canada.

Ancho Poblano Pepper Growing Information

Grow Your Own Ancho Poblano Peppers

Bring authentic Mexican flavor and deep culinary heritage into your garden. Whether you plan to stuff fresh poblanos with cheese or dry them into rich ancho chilis, this heirloom variety is an essential addition to any kitchen garden.

Start your seeds indoors this season and enjoy a rewarding harvest of versatile peppers.