Photos are representative and may not match your specific variety.
New Mexico Hatch Chile 'Sandia'
Pepper
PepperCapsicum annuum 'Sandia'
- Full sun
- Zones 4–11
- 80 days to maturity
- Vegetables
- 18" spacing
- Low water
- pH 6.5–7.5
Overview
The authentic New Mexican chile that defines the cuisine of the Southwest, offering medium heat with incredible flavor depth perfect for roasting. Developed at New Mexico State University, Sandia produces large, thick-walled pods that blister beautifully and develop complex smoky-sweet flavors when roasted. This is the real deal for making traditional green chile dishes and ristras.
Planting
Direct sow after last frost when soil is 65°F, or start indoors 6-8 weeks before transplanting.
Growing
Sun: full. Water: low. Soil pH: 6.5–7.5. Space plants 18" apart. Germination: 10-21.
Pests & diseases
Common pests: Chile thrips, aphids, spider mites, pepper weevil. Common diseases: Chile wilt, bacterial leaf spot, powdery mildew.