The use of plastic mulch and foliar application of iron on habanero pepper (Capsicum chinense Jacq.) growing on shade net infected with virus

Abstract

One of the main constraints in the production of habanero chili pepper is the infection by virus. The objective of this research was to evaluate the reduction of viral visual symptoms (chlorosis), growth and fruit yield, by effect of foliar application of iron and plastic mulch in habanero chili pepper. Two rates of foliar iron, two varieties of habanero chili pepper (infected and not infected with virus) and four colors of plastic mulch were evaluated. Results showed that plastic mulching significantly modifies the SPAD index at the beginning and end of the study. Foliar application of iron adversely affects the concentration of nitrates. Growth was modified by the use of plastic mulch and the variety of habanero chili pepper. The presence of virus on habanero variety no conditioned the crop yield. In conclusion, the use of silver plastic mulch with Sun Valley variety increases the yield due to the set up the fruit number.