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Vegetable And Spice Capsicums Crop Production Science In Horticulture 22

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Capsicums are a diverse group of plants that includes peppers, chili peppers, and bell peppers. They are a member of the nightshade family, which also includes tomatoes, eggplants, and potatoes. Capsicums are native to Central and South America, but they are now grown all over the world.

Peppers: Vegetable and Spice Capsicums (Crop Production Science in Horticulture 22)

Peppers: Vegetable and Spice Capsicums (Crop Production Science in Horticulture Book 22)

by Paul Murdin

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Capsicums are a popular crop for both home gardeners and commercial growers. They are relatively easy to grow, and they produce a high yield of fruit. Capsicums can be used fresh, dried, or processed into a variety of products, including sauces, salsas, and spices.

Seed Selection and Planting

The first step in growing capsicums is to select the right seeds. There are many different varieties of capsicums available, so it is important to choose one that is suited to your climate and growing conditions.

When selecting seeds, it is important to consider the following factors:

Heat tolerance: Capsicums are divided into two groups based on their heat tolerance: sweet peppers and hot peppers. Sweet peppers are mild in flavor, while hot peppers range from mild to extremely hot.
Maturity: Capsicums have a relatively long growing season, so it is important to choose a variety that will mature in time for harvest.
Disease resistance: Some varieties of capsicums are more resistant to diseases than others.

Once you have selected the right seeds, it is time to plant them. Capsicums can be started indoors or outdoors, but it is best to start them indoors about 6 weeks before the last frost date.

To start capsicum seeds indoors, follow these steps:

Fill a seed tray with a well-drained potting mix.
Sow the seeds 1/4 inch deep and 2 inches apart.
Water the seeds gently.
Place the seed tray in a warm, sunny location.
Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
When the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, transplant them into individual pots.

To plant capsicum seedlings outdoors, follow these steps:

Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and just as deep.
Place the seedling in the hole and fill it with soil.
Water the seedling gently.
Mulch around the seedling to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Care and Maintenance

Capsicums are relatively easy to care for, but they do require some regular maintenance. Here are some tips for caring for capsicum plants:

Watering: Capsicums need regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. Water the plants deeply, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilizing: Capsicums need to be fertilized regularly to produce a good yield of fruit. Fertilize the plants every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Mulching: Mulching around capsicum plants helps to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Pruning: Capsicum plants can be pruned to improve air circulation and reduce the risk of disease. Prune the plants by removing any suckers or diseased leaves.

Harvesting and Postharvest Handling

Capsicums are ready to harvest when they have reached their full size and color. To harvest capsicums, simply cut the fruit from the plant with a sharp knife.

Once harvested, capsicums can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to 2 weeks. Capsicums can also be dried, frozen, or canned for long-term storage.

Vegetable And Spice Capsicums Crop Production Science In Horticulture 22 is a comprehensive guide to the cultivation of capsicums. This authoritative text covers all aspects of capsicum production, from seed selection and planting to harvesting and postharvest handling. With its detailed instructions and helpful tips, this book is an invaluable resource for both home gardeners and commercial growers.

Peppers: Vegetable and Spice Capsicums (Crop Production Science in Horticulture Book 22)

by Paul Murdin

4.9 out of 5