In the colorful world of gardening, where diversity reigns supreme, few plants capture the imagination quite like sweety drop peppers. Also known as Incan red drops or biquinho peppers, these vibrant little fruits add both aesthetic charm and a burst of sweet, smoky flavor to any kitchen. With their irresistible appeal, these petite peppers have become a favorite among home cooks and gardeners seeking something special for their plates and plots. If you're ready to grow your own sweety drop peppers, this guide will walk you through every step for success.

Sweety drop peppers are a dazzling example of how versatile and flavorful the pepper family can be. Tiny, teardrop-shaped, and bright red, they’re just as pretty as they are tasty—offering a sweet, slightly smoky flavor profile that stands apart from your typical pepper.

These peppers deliver a rich, fruity sweetness with subtle hints of smoke. They are not spicy, making them perfect for those who prefer milder flavors. While they’re closely related to sweet peppers like bell peppers, their small size and complex taste make them uniquely suited for garnishes, salads, pizzas, and pickling.

Their low heat level on the Scoville scale means they’re a hit with kids and heat-averse adults alike. Their petite, glossy red form adds eye-catching color to your meals and garden beds.

Originally hailing from Brazil, these peppers—commonly referred to as biquinho peppers—hold cultural significance in South American cuisine. They're often enjoyed pickled as a snack or served as a zingy side dish. The seeds, especially the biquinho red pepper seeds, are the starting point for these flavorful plants, though they belong to a wider family that includes banana peppers and other mild varieties.

Growing sweety drop peppers successfully begins with thoughtful preparation. Creating the right environment from day one is essential for healthy plants and a vibrant harvest.

Sweety drop peppers thrive in warm, sunny climates. Choose a spot that receives full sun throughout the day and make sure the soil is well-drained and rich in nutrients. These peppers hate wet feet, so avoid soggy soil or low-lying spots that retain moisture.

The growing season typically begins in late March or early April, once daytime temperatures begin to rise. Although they prefer high temperatures, these peppers can also do well in cooler climates if you give them extra help—like row covers, greenhouses, or warm indoor spots like a sunroom or sunny patio.

Kickstart your growing season by sowing sweety drop seeds indoors. Use peat pots or 1-gallon containers filled with nutrient-rich potting mix. Adding a heat mat can help maintain optimal temperatures for germination—generally around 70–85°F.

Plant seeds about ¼ inch deep and keep the soil consistently moist—not drenched. A plastic covering or bag over the containers can trap humidity and speed up sprouting, but be sure to check regularly to avoid waterlogging.

Growing sweety drop peppers successfully begins with thoughtful preparation. Creating the right environment from day one is essential for healthy plants and a vibrant harvest.

Sweety drop peppers thrive in warm, sunny climates. Choose a spot that receives full sun throughout the day and make sure the soil is well-drained and rich in nutrients. These peppers hate wet feet, so avoid soggy soil or low-lying spots that retain moisture.

The growing season typically begins in late March or early April, once daytime temperatures begin to rise. Although they prefer high temperatures, these peppers can also do well in cooler climates if you give them extra help—like row covers, greenhouses, or warm indoor spots like a sunroom or sunny patio.

Kickstart your growing season by sowing sweety drop seeds indoors. Use peat pots or 1-gallon containers filled with nutrient-rich potting mix. Adding a heat mat can help maintain optimal temperatures for germination—generally around 70–85°F.

Plant seeds about ¼ inch deep and keep the soil consistently moist—not drenched. A plastic covering or bag over the containers can trap humidity and speed up sprouting, but be sure to check regularly to avoid waterlogging.

Once your indoor seedlings are strong and the outdoor temperatures are warm, it's time to move your peppers outside and help them flourish under the sun.

Transplant your seedlings after the last frost, when nighttime temperatures stay above 50°F. Cold weather can shock these heat-loving plants and stunt their growth.

Make sure your garden bed is free of weeds and well-prepared. Use black plastic mulch to warm the soil, suppress weeds, and conserve moisture. This will give your peppers the heat-retaining environment they need to thrive.

Sweety drop peppers are nutrient-hungry. Feed them regularly with an organic balanced fertilizer and supplement with Epsom salts for a magnesium boost—essential for lush, green foliage and healthy fruit development.

Water deeply but less frequently. Let the soil dry slightly between watering sessions to promote deep root growth and prevent fungal issues. Keep an eye on the main stem, ensuring it’s strong and upright as the plant matures.

As your plants grow, ongoing monitoring is key to ensuring they reach their full potential and remain pest-free.

Make sure your peppers continue to receive full sunlight and ample nutrients. In areas with cooler spring weather, use floating row covers to provide additional warmth and create a mini greenhouse effect. This helps maintain soil temperatures and protects against early-season pests.

Common pests like flea beetles can attack young pepper plants. Perform regular inspections and take action quickly. You can use organic deterrents, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap, and introduce companion planting strategies like growing basil or marigolds nearby to ward off unwanted bugs.

Healthy, well-fed plants are naturally more resistant to diseases and infestations, so keep up with your care routine for best results.

With proper care, your pepper plants will reward you with a beautiful harvest that’s as tasty as it is photogenic.

Sweety drop peppers are generally ready to harvest in late summer, once they’re fully ripe—small, vibrant red, and firm to the touch. Don’t rush it. The peppers taste best when they've fully developed their signature sweetness and color.

A healthy plant will yield dozens of these miniature peppers, making the wait more than worth it.

These flavorful little gems shine in a variety of dishes. Toss them into salads, scatter them over pizzas, stir them into pasta, or enjoy them pickled. Their sweet and smoky profile also pairs well with cheeses, charcuterie boards, and even grilled meats.

If you're feeling extra creative, use them as an edible garnish or even puree them into sauces for a flavorful twist.

Growing sweety drop peppers is a joyful experience for both novice and seasoned gardeners. Their eye-catching appearance, rich taste, and culinary versatility make them a must-have addition to your garden.

With the right preparation, consistent care, and a little patience, you’ll be rewarded with a bountiful harvest of peppers that bring both beauty and flavor to your plate. Whether you're looking to expand your homegrown produce selection or add some spice-free zest to your meals, these charming red drops are well worth the effort.