Author
 |
Russo, Vincent |
|
Submitted to: HortScience
Publication Type: Abstract Only Publication Acceptance Date: 1/13/2004 Publication Date: 5/15/2004 Citation: Russo, V.M. 2004. A kaolin based particle film to affect pepper yield. HortScience. 39(3):661. Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: Heat stress can limit yield in pepper (Capsicum spp.), generally through flower and fruit abortion. A kaolin based particle film, originally developed to protect fruit trees from insects, has been found to reduce temperatures in tissues of plants. The kaolin based material was tested to determine if it could be used to improve yields of pepper. Seedlings of a bell pepper, cv. Jupiter, and a non-pungent jalapeño, cv. Pace 103, were transplanted at three planting dates that would assure they would be subject to high day and night temperatures and the kaolin material applied when first flowers were produced. Applications were continued through the settings of the first three flushes of fruit on a schedule, or on an as needed basis, to determine if the material improved yield. Controls did not receive the kaolin material. Planting bell pepper after 15 May is not recommended in years with normal conditions during the growing season. Planting the non-pungent jalapeño after mid-June, under some conditions during the growing season, can reduce yields. The kaolin material did not affect yield of either pepper type and is not recommended for use on peppers if the aim is to increase yields when there is little, or no, pressure from insects. |
