Experience the rich, authentic flavor of New Mexico with 'NuMex Heritage Big Jim Hatch Chiles'. These chiles are known for their improved taste, thicker flesh, and consistent heat, perfect for fire roasting or making classic Hatch Valley recipes. With larger, more flavorful pods than the original NuMex Big Jim, this variety promises an exceptional harvest. This improved variety boasts 9,000 SHU which is spicier than the average hatch chile.

Days to Maturity: 70-75 Days from transplanting

Family: Solanaceae

Type: Under 9000 Scoville Units, Chile Pepper (Learn more)

Native: Americas

Hardiness: Frost-sensitive perennial grown as an annual

Exposure: Full Sun

Plant Dimensions: 18"–24" tall

Variety Info: 6"-8" long (but can often reach 12" long), 1 ½"-2" wide, thick-walled green peppers, turning to red when mature. Developed at New Mexico State University, this hatch chile is hotter than the average hatch at 9,000 SHU.

Attributes: Frost Sensitive

When to Sow Outside: For mild climates only: 2 to 4 weeks after your average last frost date, when soil temperature is at least 70°F.

When to Start Inside: RECOMMENDED. 8 to 10 weeks before transplanting. Ideal soil temperature for germination is 70°-90°F. Transplant seedlings outside 2 to 4 weeks after your average last frost date, and when daytime temperatures are at least 70°F, and nighttime temperatures are at least 55°F. Mild Climates: Can also sow in late summer for fall/winter crop.

Days to Emerge: 10 – 25 Days

Seed Depth: 1/4"

Seed Spacing: Start indoors

Row Spacing: 24" - 36"

Thinning: Start indoors, plant seedlings 18"–24" apart outside

Harvesting: When harvesting, take care to avoid touching the interior of any broken peppers, as the capsaicin is an extreme irritant, especially to the eyes. Wash hands thoroughly after harvesting or wear gloves to harvest peppers.