Crop Plant Paper:

For my crop plant I choose a Jalapeno, or scientifically known as Capsicum annuum originating from Mexico. Around eight weeks ago I planted my seeds and about two weeks into its growth , after I was able to observe my plant it was astonishingly a little bit more than a foot tall. I noted to my self, based off the lecture that the growing period for Jalapeno plants can be around 60-80 so I knew I still had some time to go. Although there were no signs of Jalapeño growth the plant made quick progress. After checking on the plant about two weeks later it had grown another foot and small signs of Jalapeno growth from the leaves, small Jalapenos began to grow. Lastly, following my most recent discussion section I was able to observe my plant for the final time and found it to be atleast three feet tall, if not more and with full grown Jalapenos. During this process I have learned so much about plant growth and the natural process that take place in order to grow a crop efficiently and quickly. With that being said I would like to describe more In depth about my crop in regards to the history of this crop where this crop is grown, how it is used, the importance of the crop itself, along with some other interesting facts about Jalapenos Jalapenos originated their growth in Mexico although it was traditionally grown in Xalapa, Veracruz. Since it was traditionally grown in Xalapa the Jalapeno was named after the town itself as the “X” is silent pronouncing it like so “Hal-a-peno”. In Mexico and other South American countries the Jalapeno can also be referred to as Chile Gordo or Huachinango. Along with Mexico being a leader in cultivating a good portion of Jalapeno growth, the U.S also has prevalent Jalapeno growth in New Mexico and Western parts of Texas where the climate is warmer year around. Essentially Jalapenos can grow in various temperatures as long as they are given the proper growing conditions and sufficient water, which is why my crop plant grew in its expected time frame because it was given the proper conditions and water to grow efficiently. Aside of where Jalapenos are grown and matured, the Jalapeno is used as a type of pepper that not only provides adequate spice or “heat” to a dish or a food recipe but can be used to relive cold symptoms and congestion as well . Jalapenos are such a versatile pepper and are used all around the world in countless foods and recipies, from pastries to salsa to juice, you name it most things taste good with a Jalapeno. The infamous pepper has a reasoning for its intense heat sensation, and here’s why “The components of the pepper that make it have such an intense flavor is due to the seeds inside, in fact there is a small membrane around the seed called the Placenta that holds the compound called capsaicin that holds causes the heat sensation.” ( Chili Pepper pg 14) Knowing the scientific break up of this pepper has drastically helped for agricultural purposes. The Jalapeno’s overall importance as a crop in our society today is due to the profound agriculture it has provided for Mexico and southern west parts of the United States. “In the United States approximately 5,500 acres is under cultivation, with Texas being the lead state for Jalapeno production followed by New Mexico. “ (SHG Resources pg 1). Along with its agricultural importance the pepper also has a profound culinary usage as well. It is in fact one of the most common and famous peppers used to date and has an intriguingly recognizable taste. “The impetus for the popularity of jalapenos starts from a combination of their unique taste, their heat, and their continued