Peppers, including bell peppers and chili peppers, are high-value crops that thrive with precision farming, climate-smart irrigation, and greenhouse cultivation. With modern agricultural technology, farmers can boost yields, enhance quality, and ensure year-round production!
Ideal Climate & Soil Conditions
Temperature: Best growth at 18°C to 30°C. Below 15°C slows growth, while above 35°C affects flowering.
Rainfall: Requires 600–1,200 mm annually, but controlled irrigation is preferred.
Soil: Well-drained sandy loam with a pH of 6.0–7.0.
Sunlight: Prefers 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Seed Selection & Nursery Management
Hybrid & disease-resistant varieties like California Wonder (bell pepper), Bhut Jolokia (chili), and Pusa Jwala.
Protected nursery with seedling trays ensures uniform germination.
Mist irrigation & temperature control for strong seedlings.
Land Preparation & Transplanting
Raised bed & plastic mulching conserve moisture and control weeds.
Spacing: Bell peppers: 40-50 cm apart, Chili peppers: 30-40 cm apart.
Trellising (staking or netting) improves airflow and fruit quality.
Smart Irrigation & Water Management
Drip irrigation with fertigation reduces water use by 50% and improves nutrient uptake.
Soil moisture sensors prevent over-irrigation.
Fertilization & Nutrient Management
NPK Requirements:
- Nitrogen (N): Supports vegetative growth.
- Phosphorus (P): Enhances root strength and flowering.
- Potassium (K): Improves fruit setting and size.
Pest & Disease Control
Major pests: Thrips, aphids, whiteflies, fruit borers.
Common diseases: Powdery mildew, bacterial wilt, anthracnose.
Harvesting & Post-Harvest Technology
Harvesting begins in 70-90 days, with continuous picking every 5-7 days.
Cold storage at 7-10°C maintains freshness.