Why Are Jalapeños Turning Black? 6 Causes and Simple Fixes

Don’t panic if you see your jalapeños turning black—it could just be part of the ripening process. But if you’re sure it’s not the ripening time, then it could mean something serious. Blackening can also occur due to sunscald, pests, and some other problems.

Don’t worry! I’ll break down why it happens and give you easy, practical fixes to stop it. Stick with me to keep your peppers healthy and strong!

Table of Contents

Key Points

Jalapeños turning black can be caused by natural ripening or external factors like pests.
Harvest jalapeños early to prevent blackening if you prefer green peppers.
Provide shade to avoid sunscald and keep your peppers safe from direct sunlight.
Improve soil health and water regularly to prevent black spots caused by blossom end rot.
Regularly check for pests like aphids and use natural remedies like neem oil.
If needed, use organic pesticides as a last resort for tough pest infestations.

Why Are Jalapeños Turning Black? Top 6 Reasons

Jalapeños turn black for a few reasons. It could be part of their natural ripening, or it might be because of sunscald, pests, or even frost. Some reasons are harmless, but others mean there’s a problem.

Let’s go through the top reasons, one by one, to help you figure out what’s going on with your peppers.

Natural Ripening Process

One common reason jalapeños turn black is simply because they are ripening. This happens as the pepper matures, and it’s totally normal. Before jalapeños turn red, they often go through a stage where they darken, sometimes even turning black.

This just means they are getting close to full ripeness.

So how do you know if this is why your peppers are turning black? First, check if the peppers feel firm. If they’re still firm and don’t have any soft spots, they’re probably just ripening.

Over the next few days, you should see them gradually turning red. It’s a good sign that your peppers are almost ready to pick.

In fact, most of the time, when jalapeños turn black on the vine, it’s because they’re ripening. The plant usually looks healthy, and the peppers still have a glossy look. If this sounds like what’s happening to your peppers, you’re in good shape!

Sunscald

Another reason your jalapeños could be turning black is sunscald. According to the Michigan State University, sunscald happens when peppers get too much direct sunlight. If you live in a really sunny area or your plants don’t get enough shade, the sun can damage them.

You’ll notice black spots or patches, usually on the side that’s getting the most sun.

How do you know if sunscald is the problem? Look at the blackened areas closely. Are they on the side of the pepper facing the sun? Do the spots feel dry or leathery? If so, it’s probably sunscald.

The rest of the pepper should still be firm, but the sun-exposed part will have those blackened patches.

Anthracnose (Fungal Disease)

Anthracnose can also cause dark, sunken spots on jalapeños. Jayesh B Samtani stated that this fungal disease spreads fast in hot, wet conditions. When this fungus takes hold, it can turn your peppers black, and sometimes even cause them to rot.

How can you tell if it’s anthracnose?

The black spots caused by this disease are usually soft and sunken into the pepper. You might also notice a bit of sliminess, and the spots may start to spread if it’s really humid. The plant itself may also look sick, with dark spots on the leaves.

Blossom End Rot

Blossom end rot is another reason jalapeños turn black. This problem usually happens when there’s not enough calcium in the soil, or if the watering isn’t consistent.

When a plant can’t absorb enough calcium, the bottom of the fruit develops dry, leathery black spots. You’ll notice this rot starting on the blossom end, which is the bottom of the pepper.

So, how do you know if blossom end rot is causing the black spots? Check the bottom of the jalapeños. If the black patch is only on the bottom, it’s probably blossom end rot.

These spots don’t spread across the whole pepper, but once a pepper has it, it won’t go away.

Pests (Such as Aphids)

Sometimes, pests like aphids can cause jalapeños to turn black. When they attack, they leave behind a sticky residue that can lead to black spots or streaks on your peppers. The damage from these pests weakens the plant and makes it easier for black fungal spots to appear.

How can you know if pests are the reason?

Look closely at your jalapeños. Do you see little bugs on the leaves or sticky stuff that looks like honey? That’s probably from aphids. The black spots will usually be near the damaged areas, and the plant may look a bit unhealthy overall.

Frost Damage

If you live in a colder area, frost damage could be causing your jalapeños to turn black. When peppers are exposed to freezing temperatures, the tissue gets damaged and turns black.

Unfortunately, frost damage usually means that the peppers won’t recover, and they may start to rot.

How can you tell if frost damage is the cause? Think about the weather. Did the temperature drop unexpectedly, especially at night? If yes, that’s likely why the black spots appeared.

Frost damage typically affects the whole plant, and you might notice that both the leaves and peppers have been affected.

If your jalapenos are turning black, you might also be facing other garden issues. Check out why cucumber plant leaves turn light yellow to understand more about common plant problems.

How to Fix Blackening on Jalapeños? (Super Easy Solutions)

If your jalapeños are turning black, you need to first figure out the cause. When you do, follow these effective fixes to keep your plants healthy.

Harvest Timing – Picking Jalapeños Early

Sometimes, blackening happens naturally when jalapeños are ripening. If you prefer to avoid this and enjoy your jalapeños when they’re still green, you can harvest them earlier. This prevents them from going through the ripening process where they turn black.

Picking them at the right time helps ensure you get fresh, crisp jalapeños without any blackening.

Steps to Harvest Early

Check for Color Change: When you see the first signs of darkening, it means the peppers are starting to ripen. This is the perfect time to pick them if you want to keep them green.
Test the Firmness: Gently squeeze the pepper. If it feels firm and healthy, it’s ready to be harvested. Soft spots mean it’s already too ripe.
Use Clean Tools: Use clean scissors to cut the pepper from the plant. Twisting the pepper can damage the plant, so cutting is safer.

Be mindful of checking your plants daily, especially during the harvest season. Jalapeños can ripen quickly, so if you wait too long, they may already be turning black. Picking early ensures you get the best flavor and texture.

Fix Sunscald

Sunscald happens when jalapeños get too much direct sunlight. To stop this from happening, there are some simple things you can do.

Provide Shade

Shading your plants helps protect them from too much sun. This prevents sunscald and keeps your jalapeños healthier.

Get a Shade Cloth: You can buy a light, breathable shade cloth from any garden center. It helps filter sunlight without blocking it completely.
Set Up Stakes: Use stakes or poles around your jalapeño plants. These will hold the shade cloth above the plants and keep it in place.
Drape the Cloth: Lay the cloth over the stakes. Make sure it covers the plants but doesn’t touch them directly.
Adjust as Needed: Watch your plants throughout the day. Adjust the shade cloth during the hottest hours, usually between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., when the sun is strongest.

Adjust Watering

Proper watering helps your plants stay hydrated. Hydrated plants can handle the sun better and are less likely to suffer from sunscald.

Water Deeply: Don’t just water the surface. Make sure the water soaks deep into the soil. Deep watering helps the roots grow strong.
Check Soil Moisture: According to research, keeping the soil consistently moist helps your plants fight off sunscald.

Mulching

Mulching helps the soil stay cool and prevents it from drying out too quickly. This protects the roots from heat and keeps the plant healthier.

Choose Mulch: Use organic materials like straw, wood chips, or grass clippings. These work great for holding in moisture.
Apply Mulch: Spread a three-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant. Don’t let the mulch touch the plant’s stem directly. This can cause the stem to rot.
Check Mulch Regularly: Mulch can break down over time. Check it every few weeks and add more if needed to keep a good layer on the soil.

Plant Spacing

How you space your jalapeño plants can also prevent sunscald. Proper spacing allows better air circulation and helps reduce heat buildup between the plants.

Space Plants Apart: When planting, leave at least 13-18 inches between each jalapeño plant. This gives each plant room to grow and get enough light without overcrowding.
Thin Out Crowded Plants: If your plants are too close together, thin them out. Crowded plants trap heat and moisture, making it easier for sunscald to occur.
Keep an Eye on Growth: As the plants grow, make sure they have enough space. If some plants start crowding each other, consider removing the smaller ones to give the bigger plants more room.

Rotate Crops

Rotating your crops each season keeps the soil healthy and reduces the risk of problems like sunscald and pest damage. It also gives plants access to fresh nutrients.

Change Plant Locations: Each year, plant your jalapeños in a different spot in your garden. This helps prevent the soil from getting worn out and reduces the chance of pests and diseases building up in one area.
Plan Ahead: Before planting, decide where each crop will go. Make sure your jalapeños follow crops that don’t need the same nutrients, so the soil doesn’t get depleted.
Keep a Journal: Track where you plant each crop every year. This way, you can rotate them properly and avoid planting in the same spot too often.

Pest Control to Prevent Blackening in Jalapeños

Pests like aphids can cause black spots on jalapeños by damaging the plant. Controlling these pests is important to keep your plants healthy and prevent further damage. Below are several natural and effective methods to control pests and protect your jalapeños from blackening.

Identify the Pests

Before starting any pest control, you need to know what pests are affecting your jalapeños. Common pests include aphids, spider mites, whiteflies, and pepper weevils. Each pest can cause different types of damage, from sucking the sap out of the plants to directly feeding on the fruits.

Inspect the leaves and stems: Look under the leaves and along the stems for tiny insects, sticky residue, or small webs. These are signs of pests like aphids or spider mites.
Check for black spots: Some pests, like aphids, can cause black fungus to grow on the sticky residue they leave behind, known as sooty mold. This may be a sign of infestation.
Monitor plant health: If your plants start wilting, yellowing, or showing blackened areas, inspect closely for pests.

Neem Oil Spray

Neem oil works well against pests like aphids and whiteflies. It disrupts their growth cycle, making it difficult for pests to reproduce, and helps control infestations over time.

You can get a neem seed oil bottle from any store. Get it, read the printed instructions, and follow them.

Introduce Beneficial Insects

According to CALS, introducing these beneficial or predatory insects can keep pest infestation in check. Here’s what to do:

Step 1: Purchase ladybugs, lacewings, or parasitic wasps from a garden center or online.
Step 2: Release them near your jalapeño plants in the early evening or early morning when temperatures are cooler.
Step 3: Make sure your garden has enough diversity and shelter (like flowers or small plants) to encourage the beneficial insects to stick around.

Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth can dehydrate and kill insects like ants, slugs, and caterpillars. It’s a safe way to protect your plants without harming the environment.

Step 1: Purchase food-grade diatomaceous earth from a garden store or online.
Step 2: Dust a light layer of the powder around the base of your jalapeño plants.
Step 3: Reapply after watering or rain, as the powder is most effective when dry.

Companion Planting

Certain plants like marigolds, basil, and garlic naturally repel pests that commonly attack jalapeños, such as aphids and spider mites. Planting these companions near your jalapeños helps create a natural pest defense.

Step 1: Choose companion plants such as marigolds, basil, or garlic.
Step 2: Plant them around or near your jalapeños, spacing them appropriately to allow room for growth.
Step 3: Monitor for pests, and enjoy the added benefits of pest deterrence and soil health improvement from companion planting.

Sticky Traps

Yellow sticky traps are an easy way to catch flying pests like whiteflies and gnats. These pests are drawn to the bright yellow color of the traps and get stuck, preventing them from laying eggs and multiplying.

Step 1: Purchase yellow sticky traps from a garden store.
Step 2: Place the traps near your jalapeño plants, either by hanging them or sticking them into the soil.
Step 3: Replace the traps when they become full of insects or after a few weeks, depending on the level of infestation.

Hand-Picking

For larger pests, such as caterpillars or pepper weevils, hand-picking can be an effective and immediate solution.

Step 1: Inspect your plants carefully, especially early in the morning or late in the evening when pests are more active.
Step 2: Look for caterpillars, weevils, or other large pests hiding under the leaves or near the base of the plant.
Step 3: Gently remove the pests by hand and dispose of them far away from your garden or in a bucket of soapy water.

Crop Rotation

Rotating your crops each season helps prevent pests from building up in the soil. This is especially useful if you’ve had problems with soil-borne pests in the past.

Step 1: Plan your garden layout in advance, rotating where you plant jalapeños and other crops each year.
Step 2: Avoid planting jalapeños or other peppers in the same spot for at least two seasons.
Step 3: Rotate your jalapeños with crops that don’t attract the same pests, like leafy greens or beans.

Organic Pesticides

When all other methods have been tried, and pest problems persist, organic pesticides are a last resort. They contain natural ingredients like pyrethrin or spinosad that target a wide range of pests without using harmful chemicals.

Step 1: Choose an organic pesticide that is safe for use on edible plants. Look for ingredients like pyrethrin or spinosad.
Step 2: Follow the instructions on the pesticide label for proper dilution and application.
Step 3: Apply the pesticide to affected plants, focusing on the areas where pests are most active. Be cautious not to overapply, as this can affect beneficial insects as well.

Use Fungicides: Treating Anthracnose and Other Fungal Diseases

If anthracnose or another fungal disease is causing your jalapeños to turn black, using a fungicide can help stop the spread. Fungal diseases spread quickly, especially in wet, humid conditions, so it’s important to act fast.

Here’s how to treat fungal diseases with fungicide:

Identify the problem

Before using a fungicide, make sure the black spots on your peppers are from a fungal disease like anthracnose. Look for sunken, dark spots that might be spreading to other parts of the plant.

Choose the right fungicide

Not all fungicides are the same. Look for one that’s labeled safe for use on vegetables, especially peppers.

After choosing, carefully remove any peppers that have visible signs of the fungal disease. Throw them away; don’t compost them, as that could spread the fungus to other parts of your garden.

Apply the fungicide

Follow the instructions on the fungicide label. Generally, you’ll want to spray it evenly on the leaves and fruit of the plant. Be sure to wear gloves and avoid spraying during windy days so the fungicide doesn’t drift onto other plants.

Some fungicides need to be reapplied after a week or so, especially if it rains. Check the instructions for how often you need to apply it to get the best results.

Add Calcium: Avoid Blossom End Rot

Blossom end rot happens when there’s not enough calcium in the soil or when watering is inconsistent. If this is causing your jalapeños to turn black, improving your soil and watering habits can solve the problem.

Here’s how to fix it:

Add calcium to the soil

If your soil is low in calcium, you can fix that by adding calcium-rich amendments. Crushed eggshells or bone meal are great organic options. You can also buy calcium sprays or fertilizers from garden centers.

Test the soil

You might want to test your soil to check its calcium levels. You can buy an easy-to-use soil testing kit online or at a garden center. This will tell you if your soil needs more calcium or if it’s just a watering issue.

When I had trouble with blossom end rot in my garden, fixing my watering schedule and adding calcium-rich fertilizers made a huge difference. The next batch of peppers grew without any black patches.

Is It Safe to Eat Jalapeños That Have Turned Black?

Most of the time, black jalapeños are safe to eat, especially if they are just ripening or have sunscald. However, if they have black spots from rot or disease, it’s better to avoid eating them. Always check for soft spots or signs of spoilage before using them in your cooking.

Conclusion

All in all, jalapeños turning black is a serious concern. When you notice it, do the following:

Harvest your peppers early to avoid blackening during ripening.
Provide shade during hot, sunny days to prevent sunscald.
Control pests naturally using methods like neem oil and beneficial insects.
Improve soil and watering to prevent problems like blossom end rot.
Rotate crops each season to reduce pest buildup.

Follow these points, and you’ll enjoy a great harvest full of delicious, fresh peppers!