Capsicum

Description

Field Preparation

• Land Requirements: Well-drained loamy or sandy loam soil, pH 6–7.

• Soil Prep: 2–3 deep plowings with organic manure (FYM @ 25–30 tons/ha).

• Spacing:

  • 60 cm × 45 cm or 60 cm × 60 cm (row × plant)

  • High-density planting: 45 cm × 30 cm in drip systems

Irrigation

• Frequency: Every 5–7 days depending on weather and soil.

• Method: Drip irrigation preferred to control diseases and save water.

Fertilizer Management

• Basal Dose per hectare:

  • FYM: 25–30 tons

  • NPK: 75:50:50 kg

• Top Dressing:

  • Additional 75 kg nitrogen in two splits: at 30 days and flowering stage

Pest & Disease Management

• Common Pests: Aphids, thrips, whiteflies, mites

• Diseases: Damping-off, powdery mildew, bacterial wilt, mosaic virus

• Control:

  • Use resistant varieties

  • Neem-based sprays, systemic insecticides, and fungicides as required

Flowering & Harvesting

• First Picking: ~75–90 days after transplanting

• Harvesting: Every 8–10 days when fruits are green, firm, and mature

• Yield:

  • Open field: 200–250 q/ha

  • Greenhouse: 400–600 q/ha

Post-Harvest Handling

• Grading: Based on size and quality

• Storage: Cool (7–10°C), ventilated place

• Packaging: Use ventilated crates or cardboard boxes