pepper

Industrial pepper

Industrial pepper (Capsicum annuum) is essential for producing paprika, canned peppers, sauces, and condiments. Pepper is an annual plant that requires specific growing conditions to produce quality fruit in large quantities.

Botanical characteristics

It belongs to the family Solanaceae and the genus Capsicum. There are several varieties of industrial peppers, the main variations being the fruit’s size, shape, color, and pungency. Industrial varieties of bell peppers include sweet and hot varieties, such as Capsicum annuum (sweet pepper) and Capsicum frutescens (hot pepper).

Physiological characteristics

Industrial peppers grow best at temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. They require well-drained, fertile soil and full sunshine to grow properly. Peppers require adequate nutrients, particularly nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, to produce healthy plants and high-quality fruit.

Morphological characteristics

The pepper’s root system is quite superficial and extends over a wide area, allowing it to absorb water and nutrients from the upper layers of the soil. The pepper’s shoot is erect and branched, reaching a height of 0.5 to 1 m, depending on the variety and growing conditions. The shoots are vigorous and often covered with tiny hairs. The pepper’s leaves are large, alternate, and lanceolate. They are green and shiny, contributing to photosynthesis and plant growth.

Reproductive characteristics

The pepper flowers are small and white, appearing at the nodes of the shoots. They are self-pollinating, although insects can assist pollination. The flowers have five petals and many pollen-containing stamens. The fleshy fruits vary in shape and size, from small and round to large and elongated. The color of the fruit can range from green to red, yellow, orange, or even purple, depending on the variety and stage of ripeness. The seeds of the pepper are small, flat, and yellow. Each fruit holds numerous seeds for sowing or commercial marketing in the following season.

Climate requirements

Growing industrial pepper requires specific climatic conditions to achieve high yields and produce quality fruits. Farmers must meet the following climatic requirements:

Temperature

Industrial peppers grow best at temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. Industrial pepper grows best at temperatures between 18°C and 25°C, while plant growth is optimum at temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. Seeds germinate best at temperatures between 18°C and 25°C, while optimal plant growth occurs at temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. Night temperatures should be between 15°C and 20°C to ensure excellent plant growth and fruit setting. Temperatures below 10°C can damage young shoots and delay growth. Temperatures above 35°C may adversely affect flowering and fruit set, while temperatures above 40°C may cause thermal burns on the fruit.

Rainfall

Industrial pepper requires moderate rainfall, approximately 600–800 mm annually. Rain should fall evenly throughout the growing season. Excessive rain can cause drainage problems and increase the risk of fungal diseases.

Sunlight

Industrial pepper requires full sunlight for optimal growth. It needs at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Good sunlight exposure enhances photosynthesis, contributing to the production of healthy and tasty fruits. Support systems can help ensure uniform light exposure.

Wind

Mild wind can help reduce leaf moisture and the risk of fungal diseases. Strong winds can cause physical damage to plants, such as broken shoots and the shedding of flowers and fruits. Windbreaks can protect plants from damage.

Moisture

The relative humidity should be between 60% and 70%. Excessive moisture can lead to fungal diseases, while insufficient humidity can cause dehydration and stress in plants.

Soil requirements

The selection of suitable soil and its proper preparation are crucial for the success of industrial pepper cultivation.

Industrial peppers thrive best in well-drained, fertile soils, including sandy, sandy loam, and clay loam types. The soil must provide good aeration and allow free water drainage to prevent excessive moisture and root rot. Heavy clay soils with poor drainage are unsuitable, as they lead to drainage problems and water accumulation, which can cause root rot and the development of diseases. Industrial peppers prefer soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ideally between 6.0 and 7.0. If the pH is too low (acidic), you can add lime to raise it. Conversely, if the pH is too high (alkaline), farmers should add sulfur to decrease it.

Soil preparation

Cultivation and tillage: To loosen and aerate the soil, it should be cultivated to a depth of 20-30 cm. Tillage helps break up clods and smooth the soil surface.

Fertilization: Basic fertilization before sowing includes applying nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The necessary amounts of nutrients must be determined based on soil diagnostic analyses. Fertilizers can be applied through drip irrigation or by incorporating granular fertilizers into the soil prior to sowing.

 

 

Basic Fertilization

Proper basal fertilization is essential for the healthy growth and high yield of industrial pepper plants. Each nutrient plays a specific role in plant growth and is required in varying amounts. The elements of basic fertilization have defined roles in plant production for each plant.

  • Nitrogen (N)

    Nitrogen is essential for chlorophyll synthesis, leaf growth, and plant germination. It is typically applied in two doses: the first before sowing and the second during plant growth.

  • Phosphorus (P)

    Phosphorus is crucial for root development, flowering, and fruit setting. Apply before sowing and incorporate into the soil to ensure the nutrient is available to young plants.

  • Potassium (K)

    Potassium helps regulate plant water, enhances disease resistance, and improves fruit quality. Apply potassium before sowing and during fruit development to maximize quality and yield.

  • Calcium (Ca)

    Calcium is essential for developing cell walls and preventing blossom and fruit rot. Farmers can apply calcium sulfate or nitrate to the soil or use it as foliar fertilization.

  • Magnesium (Mg)

    Magnesium is applied as magnesium sulfate and can be either added to the soil or introduced through foliar applications.

  • Sulfur (S)

    Sulfur is essential for the synthesis of amino acids and proteins. Farmers can apply it as ammonium sulfate or potassium sulfate.

  • Micronutrients

    Zinc (Zn) is crucial for enzyme synthesis and growth regulation. Cell wall development and flowering depend on boron (B). Iron (Fe) is necessary for chlorophyll synthesis and respiration. Copper (Cu) is essential for cell wall growth and defense against disease.

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Foliar applications

Foliar fertilization involves applying nutrients directly to plant leaves through spraying. This method is especially effective for swiftly correcting nutrient deficiencies and promoting plant growth during critical stages. The benefits of foliar fertilization include direct nutrient absorption and enhanced plant resistance. The optimal times for transhumance are early morning or late afternoon, when temperatures are lower and humidity is higher. Avoid periods of intense sunlight.

The elements for foliar applications are

  • Nitrogen (N) is essential during the active growth of leaves and shoots.
  • Phosphorus (P) enhances the fruit set during flowering.
  • Potassium (K) plays a crucial role during fruit development.
  • Magnesium (Mg) is essential during the period of intense photosynthesis.
  • Micronutrients (Zn, Mn, B, Fe) are essential during active leaf development and flowering.
Drip irrigation

Drip irrigation is the application of fertilizers through the irrigation system, allowing for a uniform supply of nutrients to plants. It allows for the precise and uniform application of nutrients while saving time and labor. Farmers must adjust the frequency and dosage of drip irrigation to meet the specific needs of the plants and their growing conditions.

The elements for drip irrigation are

  • Nitrogen (N) plays a crucial role in plant growth and fruit sets.
  • Phosphorus (P) is essential during sowing and early growth.
  • Potassium (K) plays a crucial role during fruit development and ripening.
  • Magnesium (Mg) and calcium (Ca) are essential nutrients during growth and fruit setting.
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The doses and growth stages mentioned are indicative and are always adjusted according to the recommendations of the agricultural consultant. Because rational fertilization is always assessed in relation to:

  • Expected yield
  • Soil characteristics
  • Planting density
  • Environmental conditions
  • Growth stage
  • Plant vigor
  • Cultivation duration
  • Hybrid

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