Lemon drop
Capsicum baccatum
Also known asAji limon · Aji lemon · Hot lemon · Qillu uchu
Environment
The bounded range this crop tolerates. Strict on light; outside the DLI band, yields drop sharply.
Climate and zones
- USDA zones
- 9–13 (winter low around -7°C)
- Frost
- frost sensitive (dies at first frost)
- Season
- warm (summer, frost-sensitive)
Growing systems
Root mass: moderate.
Growing media
| Medium | pH effect | Retention | Bacterial surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expanded clay pebbles (LECA) | neutral / inert | low | high |
| Coco coir (Coconut coir) | slightly acidic | high | moderate |
| Perlite (Expanded volcanic glass) | neutral / inert | very low | low |
| Rockwool (Mineral wool) | alkaline until pre-soaked | very high | low |
| Soil-based mix (Potting soil) | varies | high | high |
Nutrient demand by stage
NPK ratios are relative weights. EC targets shift through the plant's life.
| Stage | N | P | K | EC (mS/cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| seedling | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1.2 |
| vegetative | 3 | 1 | 2 | 1.8 |
| flowering | 1 | 2 | 3 | 2.2 |
| fruiting | 1 | 2 | 3 | 2.4 |
Companion-growing notes
- Heavy uptake of potassium, calcium. Co-grown crops with the same demand will end up deficient even at "correct" EC.
Aquaponics suitability
Compatible
Fish waste provides enough nitrogen for healthy growth. Supplemental potassium, calcium, and iron may still be needed depending on fish stocking density.
Care notes
A productive specialty pepper for hydroponic growers who want citrusy heat. EC 2.0-3.0 mS/cm. pH 5.8-6.5. Temperature: 22–30°C (baccatum species prefer warmth). High light (DLI 18-25 mol/m2/day). Plants produce heavily in DWC, Dutch bucket, or drip systems. From transplant to first ripe yellow fruit: 85-100 days (baccatum types have a longer season than most annuum varieties). Each plant produces 40-80+ small peppers over a season, among the most prolific peppers by fruit count. Harvest when fully yellow. The small, thin-walled fruits dry quickly: dehydrate at 55°C until brittle, then crush into flakes or grind into powder. Dried lemon drop powder is an exceptional seasoning: bright citrus heat that elevates fish tacos, ceviche, vinaigrettes, and popcorn. Calcium supplementation prevents blossom end rot. The plants respond well to pinching the growing tip at 25–30 cm to promote branching. Seeds are available from specialty pepper suppliers. A fun and useful crop for growers who cook with chiles.