Early growth of sweet pepper by difference between day and night temperature after planting

Abstract

This study was carried out to investigate the different DIF (day/night temperature differential) treatments on early growth of sweet pepper plants (Capsicum annuum L.) after planting. The DIF treatments were thus as follows. DIF levels are DIF -6 (20-26°C) and DIF 0 (23°C), DIF 3 (24.5-21.5°C) and DIF 6 (26-20°C). The DIF 3 and DIF 6 treatments significantly increased plant height of the sweet pepper plants during ten weeks after planting compared to DIF -6 and DIF 0. Leaf area per plant of DIF 3 treatment constantly increased and the level was greatest leaf area at ten weeks after planting. Fresh weight per plant treated with DIF -6 was lower and was reduced 74-77% range compared to other treatments. DIF 0 and DIF 3 treatments significantly affected dry weight and percentage of dry matter compared to DIF -6 and DIF 6. Especially DIF 6 treatment significantly decreased from eight weeks after planting. Percentage of dry matter of the leaf treated with DIF 0 and DIF 3 consistently increased from six weeks after planting, however, DIF -6 and DIF 6 treatments dramatically decreased from eight weeks after planting. High levels of DIF management cause growth retardant on early growth of sweet pepper plants, especially when night temperature is higher than day temperature, plants are indicated to be greater growth retardant. © 2013 Korean Society for Horticultural Science.