Alaska’s midnight sun offers unique opportunities for pepper growers who choose cold-tolerant varieties for short seasons. Finding the best peppers to grow in Alaska means selecting types that mature fast and handle cool nights.
Peppers love heat, but Alaska’s summer is short. You can still get a good harvest with the right choices. This guide covers top picks for your garden.
Best Peppers To Grow In Alaska
These peppers thrive in Alaska’s conditions. They mature in 60–80 days. Some handle cool soil better than others.
Early Jalapeno
This jalapeno variety matures in 65 days. It produces medium-hot peppers. The plants stay compact, great for containers.
- Matures in 65 days
- Mild heat, good for salsas
- Compact plants, 18–24 inches tall
- Handles cool nights well
King Of The North Bell Pepper
This bell pepper is bred for short seasons. It ripens in 60–70 days. The fruits are blocky and sweet.
- Matures in 60–70 days
- Sweet, crisp flavor
- Good for stuffing or salads
- Cold-tolerant variety
Hungarian Wax
Hungarian wax peppers are medium-hot. They mature in 70 days. The fruits turn from yellow to red.
- Matures in 70 days
- Mild to medium heat
- Great for pickling
- Productive in cool weather
Poblano
Poblanos are mild and earthy. They mature in 65–75 days. These are perfect for chiles rellenos.
- Matures in 65–75 days
- Mild heat, rich flavor
- Thick walls for stuffing
- Grows well in raised beds
Thai Dragon
Thai dragon peppers are very hot. They mature in 75 days. The plants produce many small peppers.
- Matures in 75 days
- High heat, 50,000–100,000 SHU
- Great for drying or sauces
- Needs consistent warmth
Sweet Banana
Sweet banana peppers are mild and tangy. They mature in 70 days. The fruits are long and yellow.
- Matures in 70 days
- Mild, sweet flavor
- Good for frying or salads
- Productive in cool climates
Tips For Growing Peppers In Alaska
Alaska’s growing season is short. Start seeds indoors early. Use heat mats and grow lights.
Start Seeds Indoors
Begin seeds 8–10 weeks before last frost. In Alaska, that means March or early April. Use seed-starting mix.
- Fill trays with moist soil
- Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep
- Keep soil warm, 70–80°F
- Provide 14–16 hours of light
- Harden off before transplanting
Use Raised Beds Or Containers
Raised beds warm up faster in spring. Containers let you move plants to sunny spots. Use dark-colored pots to absorb heat.
Choose The Right Location
Peppers need full sun. In Alaska, that means south-facing spots. Protect plants from wind with fences or row covers.
Extend The Season
Use row covers or cold frames. These protect plants from frost. They also trap heat at night.
Water Carefully
Peppers need consistent moisture. Water at the base to avoid leaf diseases. Use drip irrigation if possible.
Fertilize Lightly
Use a balanced fertilizer. Too much nitrogen makes leaves, not fruit. Apply every 2–3 weeks.
Common Challenges In Alaska
Alaska’s climate poses unique challenges. Here’s how to handle them.
Cool Soil
Peppers need warm soil. Use black plastic mulch to heat the ground. This can raise soil temperature by 5–10°F.
Short Daylight
Alaska has long days in summer. But spring and fall have less light. Use grow lights indoors for seedlings.
Frost
Frost can hit anytime. Cover plants at night. Use row covers or old sheets. Remove covers in the morning.
Pests
Aphids and slugs are common. Use insecticidal soap for aphids. Hand-pick slugs or use beer traps.
Best Practices For Harvesting
Harvest peppers when they reach full size. For best flavor, let them ripen to color. Green peppers are less sweet.
- Use sharp scissors or pruners
- Cut stems, don’t pull
- Harvest regularly to encourage more fruit
- Store in a cool, dry place
Varieties To Avoid In Alaska
Some peppers take too long to mature. Avoid these unless you have a greenhouse.
- Habanero (90–100 days)
- Scotch bonnet (90–110 days)
- Carolina reaper (90–120 days)
- Bell peppers with long seasons (80+ days)
Using A Greenhouse
A greenhouse can extend your season. It protects from wind and cold. You can grow more varieties.
Heating Options
Use a small heater on cold nights. Thermal mass like water barrels helps. Ventilate on hot days.
Varieties For Greenhouses
Try longer-season peppers in a greenhouse. Habaneros and bells work well. Keep temperature above 60°F.
Success Stories From Alaska Growers
Many Alaskans grow peppers successfully. One grower in Fairbanks gets jalapenos by July. Another in Anchorage uses raised beds and row covers.
These growers start seeds in March. They transplant in June. Harvest lasts until September.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Best Peppers To Grow In Alaska?
Early jalapeno, King of the North bell, Hungarian wax, poblano, Thai dragon, and sweet banana are top choices. They mature in 60–80 days.
Can You Grow Bell Peppers In Alaska?
Yes, but choose short-season varieties like King of the North. Use raised beds and row covers for best results.
When Should I Start Pepper Seeds In Alaska?
Start seeds 8–10 weeks before last frost. In most of Alaska, that’s March or early April.
Do Peppers Need Full Sun In Alaska?
Yes, peppers need at least 6–8 hours of direct sun daily. South-facing spots are best.
How Do I Protect Peppers From Frost In Alaska?
Use row covers, cold frames, or old sheets. Cover plants at night and remove in the morning.
Final Thoughts
Growing peppers in Alaska is possible with the right varieties. Focus on early-maturing types. Use season-extending techniques. You can enjoy fresh peppers from your garden.
Start small with a few plants. Learn what works in your area. Each season teaches you something new.
Remember, the midnight sun gives your peppers extra light. Use it to your advantage. With planning, you’ll have a successful harvest.