Q: Dear Dave,I am looking to bottle and distribute my products. Could you help me with some info on how to manufacture the sauces I have made? Any help would be very much appreciated. Maybe next year I will be able to join the show in Albuquerque!Sincerely, Vinnie A: Hello Vinnie:First step: read all the basic information pertaining to manufacturing, distributing, …
Chili & BBQ Cookoffs
Q: Howdy Dave! I’ve been getting your online newsletter for some time, and I recently subscribed to the magazine. I see information for trade shows listed, but don’t see where the listings for chili and/or barbeque cookoffs are located. Am I not using a keen enough eye for the obvious or are they just not listed that far in advance? …
Corking
Q: Dear Dave,We know corking is a good sign for jalapeños, but just why does it occur? What causes the stress that creates this desirable feature?Jim Maley Master Gardener UC Ex Santa Clara County California A: Hello Jim:Corking is genetically linked to original Mexican varieties of jalapeños. It is desirable there, but not in the States, so most varieties grown and …
Mini-Greenhouse In The Mohave Desert
Q: Hi Dave,I’m growing jalapeno plants in pots outside. I live near the Mojave Desert, CA, so the climate is dry heat. Is it better to use a mini-greenhouse (which I all ready have) or not?Thanks, Gabe A: Hello Gabriel:They should be fine outdoors as long as the night temperature does not drop below freezing. I think a mini-greenhouse would get …
Flower Drop
Q: Hi Dave,I have planted seeds from fresh red Thai chiles and they have germinated and are looking good. However, some of my mature plants (jalapenos) seem to be dropping their flowers. What might I be doing wrong? The plants receive very good sun light. Would over or under watering result in this?Thanks in advance, Mark A: Hello Mark:It is difficult …