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How To Properly Pick Jalapeno Peppers Without Damaging
The Plant
By ROBYN HUNT
Jalapenos reach a mature length of 3 to 5 inches in about four to six months and transform in color from light to dark green within six months after planting.
To avoid harming your plant, only seek out the mature peppers, which will be red or black in appearance, depending on how spicy you want them to be.
Gently hold the branch beneath the pepper, pull the pepper upwards, and aim for a clean break at the end of the stem, which will prevent any unnecessary stress to the plant.
Ripe jalapenos easily detach with a satisfying snap. Avoid twisting or tearing the stem so that the plant continues bearing fruit, or use pruning shears for a more precise cut.