Yield, morphological characteristics, and quality of Sweet Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) under two planting densities and pruning methods

Introduction. Sweet Bell pepper is one of the most consumed vegetables, but in warm climate areas, there is a need for more research on agronomic management practices to increase fruit production and quality. Objective. To evaluate the effect of two planting densities and two pruning methods on the yield, morphological characteristics, and fruit quality of Sweet Bell peppers. Materials and methods. The research was conducted in a greenhouse in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, from July 2015 to March 2016. Two planting densities were evaluated: 20 800 and 41 700 plants/ha, along with two pruning systems (Dutch and Spanish) and a control without pruning. Fruit weight, Brix degrees, plant height, leaf area index, total yield, and quality category yield were quantified. The data from each variable were subjected to an analysis of variance with factorial treatment structure. Results. Pruning did not affect the yield first-quality fruit, while the higher planting density achieved a higher yield in this category. Spanish pruning produced longer first-quality fruits but had no effect on other variables (width, weight, and Brix degrees). When using any pruning system and a high planting density, the total yield (p>0,05) was similar to non-pruned plants planted at a low density. Conclusion. Increasing planting density increased the yield of first-quality fruits, while pruning had no effect on yield.