Abstract
The effect of rate of N fertilizer and irrigation on yield and quality of peppers (Capsicum annum L.) was studied oyer a 5-yr period from 1974 to 1978 and data for 4 yr are presented. Irrigation significantly increased yield only in 2 yr (1974 and 1978) when rainfall was below normal. Yield differences due to irrigation were attributed to increased fruit numbers per plant (increased fruit set), increased fruit size, increased wall thickness and a reduced number of non-marketable fruit, due to a reduction in the incidence of sun scald and blossom-end rot. The response to N was variable. Rates of N greater than 70 kg/ha did not in general result in increased yields. Higher rates of N reduced yields in 1978, due to the adverse effect of high N on fruit set, resulting in reduced fruit numbers per plant. Rate of N had no effect on fruit size or wall thickness, but high N increased the incidence of blossom-end rot and delayed maturity in some seasons. The interaction between irrigation and N was not significant. Petiole NO3-N content at early fruit set reflected the rate of N applied. When the concentration of NO3-N in the tissue dropped below 0.4%, yields were significantly reduced.

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