New York, NY – [April 18, 2024] – Small Axe Peppers, a pioneering social enterprise, is proud to announce the commencement of its tenth growing season, celebrating a decade of transformative impact through partnerships with urban farms and community gardens across the United States. Founded in 2015 with just five community garden partners in the Bronx, Small Axe Peppers has grown to collaborate with 35 gardens in 17 states, proving the viability of urban agriculture in fostering community and sustainability. From its inception, Small Axe Peppers was met with skepticism about the viability of s ..read more

Dive into the world of jalapeños, a cornerstone of spicy cuisine beloved for its perfect balance of heat and flavor. This post explores the jalapeño’s journey from its origins to its place on the Scoville Scale, celebrating its versatility and the rich tapestry of flavors it brings to the table. Join us as we delve into the story of the jalapeño, highlighting its role in the creation of Small Axe Peppers’ Jalapeño Hot Sauce Three Pack, where each sauce is a tribute to the local flavors and spirit of cities like Chicago, Oakland, and Queens. Understanding the Jalapeño: A Historical Perspective ..read more

The Scoville Scale is the universal measure of spiciness for chili peppers and hot sauces. It translates the capsaicin-induced heat—responsible for that spicy kick—into a numerical value that we can understand and compare. This guide will delve into what the Scoville Scale is, how it works, and its significance for those who enjoy the spicier things in life. Whether you’re mildly curious about the heat in your salsa or you’re a hot sauce enthusiast seeking the next level of spice, understanding the Scoville Scale is essential. What is the Scoville Scale? The Scoville Scale, established by che ..read more

Spice enthusiasts rejoice! That fiery kick in your favorite hot sauce or chili pepper isn’t just a thrill for your taste buds; it’s also a boon for your health. The compound responsible for this heat is capsaicin, a remarkable substance that’s been stirring up interest in the scientific community. From boosting metabolism to providing pain relief, capsaicin’s potential health benefits are as diverse as they are exciting. In this post, we’ll explore the latest research on this spicy marvel and uncover the secrets of capsaicin’s role in wellness. What is Capsaicin? Capsaicin is a natural compou ..read more

In the bustling heart of our cities, an agricultural revolution is underway. As urban populations swell and food insecurity becomes an ever-growing concern, urban agriculture emerges as a beacon of hope and sustainability. This post delves into how urban farming is reshaping the way we think about food production and access in city landscapes. Urban Farming: A Solution to Food Deserts Food deserts, areas with limited access to affordable and nutritious food, are a stark reality in many urban areas. Urban agriculture offers a promising solution to this challenge. By bringing food production cl ..read more

In the midst of urban expanses, where concrete and steel dominate the landscape, a green revolution quietly unfolds. Urban farming, a concept once relegated to the fringes of city planning, is now at the forefront of a movement redefining the very essence of urban spaces. More than a mere source of local produce, these verdant oases are catalysts for biodiversity, transforming ‘gray’ urban areas into lush, ‘green’ habitats. This blog delves into the multifaceted impacts of urban agriculture: from bolstering city biodiversity and creating communal bonds to championing urban beekeeping. We explo ..read more

In recent years, the concept of rooftop gardens has blossomed in cities around the world, transforming barren concrete jungles into lush, green oases. These innovative gardens are not only beautifying urban areas but also playing a crucial role in sustainable living and urban agriculture. This post explores the growing trend of rooftop gardens and their significant impact on cityscapes. The Emergence of Rooftop Gardens Rooftop gardening is not a new idea. Historically, people have cultivated plants on roofs for various reasons, including temperature control and food production. The modern roo ..read more

In the heart of the city, urban gardens offer a lush oasis, providing fresh produce and a touch of green serenity. Peppers, with their vibrant colors and varied flavors, are a popular choice for urban gardeners. To enhance their growth and yield, companion planting is a key strategy. This extended guide explores the best companions for peppers and the plants to avoid, ensuring a thriving urban garden. The Benefits of Companion Planting Companion planting is more than just a gardening technique; it’s a way to create a balanced ecosystem in your garden. This method offers several benefits: Nat ..read more

Starting peppers from seeds is an engaging and rewarding gardening venture. This blog post will guide you through the entire journey, from selecting the right seeds to enjoying the bountiful harvest. 1. Selecting Pepper Seeds Begin by choosing the pepper variety you wish to grow. Options range from mild bell peppers to spicy chilies. When selecting seeds, consider factors like the length of your growing season, the pepper’s heat level, and the plant’s growth habit. Purchase seeds from a reliable source to ensure high germination rates and healthy plants. 2. Timing and Initial Setup Timing is ..read more

Urban gardening is a delightful and rewarding activity, offering city dwellers a slice of nature’s bounty in their own limited spaces. Among the various vegetables you can grow, peppers stand out for their vibrant colors, varied flavors, and the relatively simple care they require. Whether you have a small balcony or a modest rooftop garden, growing peppers can add both aesthetic appeal and culinary excitement to your urban green space. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the process of choosing the ideal pepper plant for your garden. Understanding Different Types of Peppers Swee ..read more