Pardon

Padron Chilli Pepper

(Also known as Pimientos de Padrón)

A classic Spanish tapas favourite, this compact chilli plant produces an abundance of small, mild peppers – perfect for frying, stuffing, or adding to stir-fries. Traditionally celebrated in the town of Padrón, Spain, these chillies are usually picked young for a gentle heat. Leave them to ripen longer, and they’ll pack more of a punch!

Harvest:

June to October – Pick when fruits are swollen, glossy, and green.

Growing Instructions:

• Spacing: Plant 45cm apart.

• Position: A sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained soil is ideal.

• Best Results: Grow in a greenhouse or conservatory. They’ll grow outdoors in pots on a sunny patio, but yields may be lower.

• Watering: Keep well-watered during dry spells and while establishing, but avoid waterlogging.

• Shade: In very hot weather, provide light shade to protect tender leaves.

• Support: Once plants reach around 30cm, stake them to support the growing fruit.

• Feeding: Start feeding only once 2–3 chillies have formed – not before.

Top Tips:

• Handle with care: Always wash your hands after handling chillies.

• Warmth matters: Chillies dislike cold soil – pots or grow bags warm up faster than open ground and help boost growth.

• Encourage fruiting: If only one chilli forms and no others appear, pick it – this often stimulates the plant to produce more.