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Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the effect of three types of fertilization—chemical, biological, and organic—on the growth, yield, and profitability of three creole chili pepper genotypes (Ancho Liso, Carricillo, and Chino) cultivated under rainfed conditions in Apaxtla de Castrejón, Guerrero, Mexico.
Design/methodology/approach: Three creole chili pepper genotypes grown in Apaxtla de Castrejón were evaluated. A randomized complete block design with a split-plot arrangement was used, where genotype was the main factor and fertilization type was the secondary factor.
Results: Highly significant differences were observed among genotypes and fertilization types, as well as a significant genotype × fertilization interaction. The Ancho Liso genotype under chemical fertilization showed the highest values for plant height (46 cm), number of fruits per plant (22.5), fresh fruit weight, and yield (2.04 t ha⁻¹), in addition to the highest net income (MXN $7,282.5 ha⁻¹) and return per unit of investment (0.23). In contrast, the Chino genotype exhibited the lowest productive adaptation, showing low fruit yields under all three fertilization types.
Study limitations/implications: Genotype selection and fertilization management are key determinants for increasing the yield of creole chili peppers.
Findings/conclusions: The genotype × fertilization interaction is decisive for optimizing creole chili pepper production. In the Ancho Liso genotype, chemical fertilization was the most effective, whereas in Carricillo, biological fertilization was as effective as chemical fertilization, and in Chino, yield was unaffected by fertilization type. These results indicate that only in the Carricillo genotype is it advisable to substitute chemical fertilization with biological fertilization without reducing crop yield while maintaining economic profitability.