Hot Little Farm in New Jersey

by Mark R. Vogel

The Devil's Tongue Pepper, was "discovered" growing amongst other habaneros in Pennsylvania. Its exact origins are unknown but it is clearly in the habanero family based on its taste and heat level.

It is a two to two and a half inch long by one inch wide, wrinkled, yellow pepper. The Fatallii is an African variety, similar to the Devil's tongue except somewhat longer, and also a habanero relative.

These four peppers are the favorites for one very simple reason: they are the hottest. "People want hot," explains Janie, "The milds do not sell as well."

The number of types of chile peppers is constantly growing. The main reason for this is hybridization. Sometimes this is done by design. But frequently the actions of insects, birds and other natural forces can cause chiles to cross-pollinate.

New varieties are then discovered as the aforementioned Devil's Tongue. Janie and Fernando have also visited a number of Caribbean nations in the quest for new peppers.

Cross Country exclusively employs organic means to fertilize their plants and control for pests. Fish emulsion and seaweed are utilized as fertilizer. Fish emulsion is high in nitrogen and promotes strong growth and deep green leaf development.

Seaweed is high in potassium, (beneficial for the roots), and many other micronutrients and serves as a "multivitamin."Ladybugs, among other insects, are released in the greenhouses to eat aphids and other pests. A small manmade pond in the motherhouse assists in maintaining high humidity that repels spider mites.

Cross Country Nurseries is located at PO Box 170, 199 Kingwood-Locktown Road, Rosemont NJ 08556.They can be reached at 908-996-4646 or at their website at www.chileplants.com.

The website contains beautiful color photos of all of their peppers. They are open to the public April through June. Shipping of live plants occurs during the same months, and fresh pepper pods in September.