How Plastic Mulch Types Affect Growth Parameters of Drip Irrigated Summer Peppers

Abstract

Effects of plastic mulch types (transparent - T1, white - T2, black T3, silvercoated black plastic- T4), organic mulch (T5) and nonmulching (T6) were evaluated on growth parameters of drip irrigated summer peppers (Capsicum annuum L. cv. Cubanelle) in the semi-arid southem coast of Puerto Rico. Growth parameters (plant height, secondary and tertiary branches, number of nodes and buds on the primary branch) versus days after transplanting relationships were exponential. Transparent plastic caused lowest plant height and fruit weight. T2, T3, and T4 plots increased pepper yield by 28, 46 and 132%, respectively compared with non-mulched plots and accelerated flowering and fruit set. Relationships among plant height versus fresh pepper weight and growth parameters versus nutrient uptake were linear and the correlation coefficient varied from 0.90 to 0.99.