Evaluation of the agronomic behavior of the habanero pepper (Capsicum chinense) crop at different planting densities.

Abstract

The present study focused on evaluating the agronomic behavior and yield of the Habanero pepper (Capsicum chinense) at different planting densities, with the objective of determining the best planting density in the Quinindé canton. To carry out this research, a methodology that combined qualitative and quantitative approaches was implemented. Nine habanero pepper plantation plots were established, with three different treatments: T1 (30 cm between plants x 1.20 m between rows), T2 (40 cm between plants x 1.20 m between rows) and T3 (50 cm between plants x 1.20 m between rows). Monthly measurements were carried out for six months for the variables: number of leaves, plant height, stem diameter, number of flowers and number of fruits. A complete randomized design with three treatments and three repetitions was used, and a one-way analysis of variance was performed along with Tukey tests at 95% reliability. The results showed that planting density has a significant impact on both the agronomic behavior and the yield of the habanero pepper. As the planting density decreased, an increase in the number of leaves, plant height, stem diameter, number of flowers and number of fruits was observed. Treatments with higher planting densities generated higher yields in terms of number of fruits produced per plant. The optimal planting density statistically identified in this study was that of Treatment 2, which promoted a good balance between agronomic performance and yield.