Pepper | Scotch Bonner

Scotch Bonnet peppers are commonly used in Caribbean cuisine, especially Jamaican dishes; an authentic jerk paste will be made using the scotch bonnet. Unlike other peppers, scotch bonnet peppers have a spicy and subtle fruity note. In terms of growing, these peppers need a lot of heat; the more heat provided, the hotter the pepper. Packet contains 35-40 seeds.

Please note, a GOOD germination rate for this seed is around 60%. Scotch Bonnet is not easy to germinate and grow due to its heat requirements. Please keep this in mind when trying this seed!

Scotch Bonnet Pepper
Capsicum chinense

Why Grow Scotch Bonnet Peppers?

• Essential authentic ingredient for Jamaican jerk paste and Caribbean dishes
• Distinctive fiery heat combined with a subtle, sweet fruity flavor
• High-yielding plants for experienced gardeners seeking intense spice
• Scoville rating of approximately 150,000 units
• Approximately 35-40 seeds per packet

How to Grow Scotch Bonnet Peppers from Seed

Start Scotch Bonnet pepper seeds indoors approximately 8-10 weeks before your last expected spring frost. Because germination requires warmth (ideally maintaining soil temperatures around 27°C to 32°C / 80°F to 90°F), using a seedling heating mat is highly 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 Scotch Bonnet Peppers in Canada

Scotch Bonnet peppers demand a long, intensely warm growing season. Canadian gardeners must start seeds early indoors and provide maximum sun and warmth (such as a greenhouse, sunny patio, or south-facing wall) to get a successful harvest.

Avoid transplanting outdoors too early. These plants are exceptionally sensitive to cold snaps and will stall if put out before the weather is reliably hot.

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

Scotch Bonnet Pepper Growing Information

Grow Your Own Scotch Bonnet Peppers

Take your culinary creations to the next level with world-famous Caribbean heat. Growing your own Scotch Bonnet peppers is a rewarding challenge for pepper enthusiasts who can provide the warmth and care these plants crave.

Start your seeds indoors this season and unlock authentic, fiery flavor right from your garden.