Response of ecotypes of piquín chili (Capsicum annum var. Aviculare L.) to the effect of different levels of shade cover

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effect of different levels of shade coverage with black mesh on the growth and production of two ecotypes of piquin chilli cultivated with plastic mulch.

Design/methodology/approach: 16 g of fruits from wild plants of Ecotypes I and II were collected to analyze their morphological differences. In the greenhouse, the germination rate and germination percentage, as well as seedling height and diameter, were evaluated for both ecotypes. A completely randomized block design with eight replications was used. Then, 80-day-old plants were transplanted to the field and established under four shade net treatments: T1 (0% shade), T2 (35%), T3 (50%), and T4 (90%). The variables evaluated in the field were plant height and diameter, as well as fruit production.

Results: Two ecotypes of piquin chili peppers were morphologically characterized. Ecotype I showed higher emergence (70%) than Ecotype II. In the greenhouse, both ecotypes had similar developments, but in the field, Ecotype I grew more. Treatment T3 improved fruit production in both ecotypes. Shading levels did not affect plant growth.

Limitations on study/implications: Piquin chili peppers are harvested in agroforestry systems; given the high demand, shade cover promotes sustainable intensification as an agronomic alternative.

Findings/conclusions: Shade coverage is an intensive and sustainable strategy that helps to genetically conserve chili pepper ecotypes during production.