EFFECT OF SPACING AND MICRONUTRIENTS ON SEEDPRODUCTION OF CHILLI (Capsicum frutescem L.)

UNDER CHHATTISGARH REGION

T H E S I S

Submitted to theIndira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur

in partial fulfilment of the requirements

for the Degree of

MASTER OF SCIENCEIN

AGRICULTURE(HORTICULTURE)

Manoj Kumar Sah

DEPARTMENT OF HORTICULTURE

INDIRA GANDHI AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITYCOLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE

RAIPUR (M. P.)

2000

INDIRA GANDHI AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, RAIPURCOLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE, RAIPUR (M.P.)

CERTIFICATE-!

This is to certify that the thesis entitled "EFFECT OF SPACING AND

MICRONUTRIENTS ON SEED PRODUCTION OF CHILLI (Capsicum

frutescens L.) UNDER CHHATTISGARH REGION" submitted in partial

fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of "MASTER OF SCIENCE IN

AGRICULTURE", (HORTICULTURE) of the Indira Gandhi Agricultural

University, Raipur (M.P.) is a record of the bonafide research work carried out by

Manoj Kumar Sahu under my guidance and supervision. The subject of the

thesis has been approved by student's Advisory Committee and the Director of

Instructions.

No part of the thesis has been submitted for any other

degree or diploma or has been published/published part has been fully

acknowledged. All the assistance and help received during the course of the

investigations have been duly acknowledged by him.

MAHAJAN)Chairman of the Advisory Committee

THESIS APPROVED BY STUDENT'S ADVISORY COMMITTEE(/i^A^f^lf/l^^'

Chairman : Dr. Vijay Mahajan

Member : Dr. D.A. Sarnaik

Member : Shri H.G. Sharma

Member : Shri C.P. Khare

Member : Dr. Anurag

Member : Shri A. L. Rai

INDIRA GANDHI AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, RAIPURCOLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE, RAIPUR (M.P.)

•

CERTIFICATE - II

This is to certify that the thesis entitled "EFFECT OF

SPACING AND MICRONUTRIENTS ON SEED PRODUCTION OF CHILLI

(Capsicum frutescens L.) UNDER CHHATTISGARH REGION" submitted by

Manoj Kumar Sahu to the Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur (M.P.) in

partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of "MASTER OF SCIENCE

IN AGRICULTURE" (HORTICULTURE) in the Department of Horticulture has

been approved by the student's Advisory Committee and External Examiner after

on oral examination on the same.

DATE: .l./..n./..2.d., EXTERNAL EXAMINER

Dr. VIJAY MAHAJANMAJOR ADVISOR AND CHAIRMAN

Dr. P. N. SINGHHEAD OF THE DEPARTMENT

Dr. K.C. AGRAWALDIRECTOR OF INSTRUCTIONS

fkknowlQdgemant

I feel great pleasure in expressing my sincere thanks and deep sense* _

of gratitude to Shri Dr. V. Mahajan, Assistant Professor, Department of

Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Raipur and chairman of my advisory

committee for his valuable guidance and constant encouragement throughout the

course of investigation.

I wish to express my deep sense of gratitude to Dr. P.N. Singh,

Professor and Head, Department of Horticulture, I.G.A.U., Raipur (M.P.) for his

inspiring guidance and helpful suggestions during the course of my work.

I am deeply obliged to all the member of advisory committee Dr.

D.A. Sarnaik, Associate Professor Shri H.G. Sharma, Assistant Professor. (Hort.),

Shri C.P. Khare ( Plant Pathology), Dr. Anurag, Assistant Professor (Soil

Science) and Shri A.L. Rai, Assistant Professor (Agricultural Statistics) for

valuable guidance and suggestions in completion of this work.

With profound respect? I extend my gratitude to Dr. V.K. Patil,

Hon'ble Vice Chancellor, I.G.A.U., Raipur, Dr. R.S. Tripathi, Director of

Research Services , Dr. M.N. Shrivastava, Dean & Dr. K.C. Agrawal Director

Instructions, IGAU, Raipur for providing necessary facilities during the period of

my research work.

I am deeply thankful to my teachers Dr. N. Shukla, Dr. N. Mehata,

Shri P. Dubey and staff members Shri T.Tirkey, Shri T.N. Banjara, Shir J. Trivedi,

Shri S. Verma, Shri N. Agrawal, Shri A. Dixit, Department of Horticulture and

Dr. (Smt.) C. Mahajan who were always ready to give their valuable kind

guidance when ever required.

My most heartful thanks goes to my senior Sir R, Yadav, Ramakant,

Gavind, Phoolsingh, Jamna, Dinesh, Endrasan, Dilip, Rajesh, Ramveer and D.

Sharma and my friends Jeevan, Narayan, Baldev, Dogra, Subimal, Panrin, Dabas,

Ku. Annu, Rajshri, Serene, Bhagat, Ramtake, Rajesh, Dinesh, Shivaji, Ramlakhan,

Rajeev, Kushanu, Raju, Raghunath, Tejlal and Chainu, and Juniors Naidu,

Manoj, Mangal, Devshanker, Kishore, Amit, Bhagvat Shishir, Ravi, Hemant,

Rajaram, Parvind, Sukulsingh, Mandari, Mahobe, Daharia for their love and co-

operation during post graduation.

My special thanks to Shri R.K. Tembhare, Shri L.S. Yadv, Shri V.

Verma, Shri P.L. Sinha and Shri Man mohan Yadav for their kind assistance

during the course of investigation.

My deepest gratitude of course is to my parents father Shri Shiv

Prasad, mother Smt. Ramkunwar, Jija Shri Biras Sahu, Sister Smt. Tameshwari

Sahu, elder brother Shri Tameshwar Sahu bhabhi ji Smt. Shyma Sahu and other

member Ramkumar, Savita, Guatam, Shekhar, Devendra, Chhotu and Gayatrifor

their constant inspiration, love affection and encouragement without I would not

have reached up to this stage.

I thank to Shailendra K. Bais (Pappu) for his extra efforts in typing

my manuscript within stipulated period of time.

I thank one and all to whom I have forgotten to thank.

Dept. of HorticultureCollege of AgricultureRaipur(M.P.)492012

Date :

Manoj Kumar Sahu

Chapter-1

INTRODUCTION

Chilli (Capscium frutenscens L) is one of the most valuable

solanaceous crops being grown for vegetable, spices, Condiments, souces,

pickles and making chutney is also rich in vitamin 'A'and 'C'. It becQme

popular among consumers owing to its high food value and among the

vegetable growers because of its wide adaptability to various agroclimatic

conditions prevailing in different part of the country.

India has emerged as the largest producer of chilli with

production of 8,50,000 metric tonnes (Murugan, 1998). The average

productivity of chillies in India and Madhya Pradesh is 932 kg / ha and 214

kg/ha, respectively (Peter, 1997). Since the productivity of chillies in

Madhya Pradesh is quite low, therefore it becomes more important to

increase the production and productivity for the increasing population.

The planting distance is an important factor for determining the

growth, yield and quality of vegetable crop. Therefore, judicious assessment

for the spacing is most essential to get sufficient nutrients, light and air for

the optimum growth and development of plant besides giving more

economic returns, which vary from variety to variety and regionsjpdividual

plant in wider planting distance generally gives better result but the

cumulative yield per unit area remains lower in comparison to closer

planting (Revanappa et a/. 1997 b). The quality of the produce may be

adversely affected and may not fetch better price in the market. Gulshan

and Lai (1992) also emphasized the role of spacing in terms of net returns

in chillies.

An adequate and balanced supply of plant nutrients is pre-

requisite to maximize the yield. The use of micronutrients though required

in minute quantity, their role is one of the most deciding attribute for quality

yield (Dangare, 1997). During the last 25 years,the practical importance of

micronutrients in agriculture, horticulture and other production sectors has

increased significantly due to wide spread micronutrients deficiencies in

Indian soil. Despite the fact that the micronutrients have got definite effect

on the yield and quality of vegetables, consequently little attention has so

far been given to this aspect.

Long term use of chemical fertilzers particularly N, P and K

alone by the farmers resulted in deterioration in soil productivity under the

modern intensive farming system, which was found to be associated with

the imbalance in certain secondary and micronutrients elements (Nambiar,

1994)%.inc was identified as usually yield limiting among the micronutrients

under the intensive farming.

The failure to correct these nutrient imbalance in time may

have far-reaching economic consequences not only in raising productivity

but also in maintaining the quality of the produce. In many part of India, zinc

as a plant nutrient now standsthird in importance next to nitrogen and

phosphorus (Thakkar and Randhawa, 1980). The role of these

J

micronutrients in maintaining sustained productivity was also evaluated

under intensive cropping system by Nabiar and Abrol (1988) and Nabiar

and Abrol (1989). Reduction in the uptake of nutrient by crop was in general

observed on certain soils after a decade of intensive farming which was

found to be associated with the emergence of deficiencies of one or more

of the plant nutrients leading to decreased productivity. It is therefore of

paramount importance that a rigorous monitoring of micronutrient should be

done which are yield limiting, for the sustainable productivity (Nambiar,

1994).

Scientific seed production in India has yet to get a sound

footing largely due to non availability of sufficient information of its

production practices. This has resulted in the reluctance of growers to take

up the seed production of chilli, commercially. Good seed is the basic and

most important input requiring relatively less cost, amongst all the inputs

involved in the crop production. There is a great demand of fresh seeds

every year in India. The total area in the country under chilli is 568000

hactare and the total seed requirement was worked 568 thousand kg

(Agrawal, 1998).

Chillies can be grown in a wide range of agroclimate hence

there is greater possibilities of quality seed production, in Chhattisgarh

region also. Chilli seed crop is influenced by several factors, among those,

time of planting, spacing, fertilizer application, diseases and insects etc. are

important. No earlier work has been done in this region on the seed

production of chilli. Thus, considering the facts mentioned above an

experiment entitled "Efect of spacing and micronutrients on seed

production of chilli (Capscium fruitescens L.) under Chhattisgarh

region" was conducted with the following objectives :

1. To study the effect of spacings on growth, fruit and seed yield of chilli.

2. To study the effect of different micronutrients on growth, fruit and

seed yield of chilli.

3. To study the influence of spacing and micronutrients on seed

quality of chilli.

REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Chapter- II

REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Optimum spacing and micronutrient plays greater role in

cultivation of vegetable for maximising yield and quality produce.

Recently, considerable interest has also been focused toward the use

of micronutrients , through foliar application. Considering beneficial

effects of micronutrients and spacing, an experiment entitled "Effect of

spacing and micronutrients on seed production of chilli (Capsicum

frutescens L.) under Chhattisgarh region". The literature pertaining

to the important factors like spacing and micronutrients influencing

growth, fruit set, flower drop, number of seeds per fruit, yield and quality of

chilli and solanaceous crops, as well as other vegetable crops are

reviewed briefly under appropriate headings.

2.1 Effect of spacing on growth and yield of chilli

Plant density per unit area is one of the most important

factors governing the yield of vegetable crops. While a larger spacing

would enable a plant to express its growth potentialities to a greater

extent _, "the decrease in plant population may not be compensated by

extra performance of individual plant in respect of yield. It is necessary to

decide spacing judiciously so that each plant growing side by side gets

sufficient amount of nutrients, light, air and space for optimum

T

growth and development and compromise may establish between the

quantity and quality of the produce.

Thompson and Kelley (1957) stated that small growing

variety of chillies should be put at closed spacing of 45 cm and spreadly

ones 75 to 90 cm apart. Further, stated that most of peppers are planted

about 60 cm in row and 90 cm apart. Transplanting at 75 x 75 cm gave

more return.

Choudhury (1967) suggested that in North India

generally, chillies are spaced at a distance of 45 x 45 cm, while in South

India, they are generally spaced 55 x 55 cm. He further, stated that closer

spacing with the rows ensure higher yields.

Palevileth (1969) concluded . that an increase in plant

population results in higher total as well as red fruit yield in single

harvesting. The high yield was recorded at a density of 26.7 plants/sq.m.

The spacing of plants at 45 x 30 cm resulted in higher yield (Anonymous,

1969). The best results were obtained by transplanting at 30 cm apart in

wide plastic tunnels. It was further noted that closer spacing appearedto

cause excessive competition for light (Rosenblum, 1970).

Boominathan et al. (1971) and Selvaraj et al. (1972)

reported on the basis of a trial conducted at Bhavani Sagar on spacing

of chillies at 60 x 60 cm, 45 x 45 cm and 30 x 30 cm spacing gave

highly significant yield difference. The yield was linear with the increase

in the plant population. The closely spaced crop registered 65 per cent

increase over widely spaced.

Mucalov et al. (1971) Obtained higher yield from 2400 to

4000 plants per acre (45 x 30 to 25 cm) but after considering the cost of

plant and transplanting of labour, there was no economical advantageI

from higher population. They also stated that standard early (var.

Vinedale and Shepherd) and compact early ( var. Vinettle and

Spartan Garnet) cultivars at 1600 plants per acre (30 cm apart in rows 80

cm apart) produced 9.9 and 11.3 tonnes per acre. Chillies planted at 30 x

30 cm out yielded those planted at conventional spacing of 45 x 45 cm by

about 21 per cent.

Chauhan (1972). Suggested planting distance of 75 cm x 45

cm for the varieties bearing a small fruit and 90 x 60 cm for those

bearing large fruits.

Singh (1973) recommended 45 x 30 cm planting distance for|

chilli. While a spacing of 75 cm line to line (ridges) and 45 cm plant to

plant for irrigated chillies and 90 cm for rainfed condition for Karnataka

was recommended for getting good yield (Anonymous, 1974).

Experiments were conducted on spacing of chillies planted at

20x20 cm, 20 x 30 cm and 40 x 40 cm by Sinha (1975) and recorded

highest yield at the closest spacing and lowest at the widest one.

Patil and Singh (1979) conducted trial with the capsicum

cvs. Patana Red, Pusa Jwala, NP 46-A and G-3 and observed increase in

mean yield and ripe pods of all cvs. From 14.1 q ha"1 in plants spaced at

45 x 60 cm to maximum of 28.36 q ha~1in plants spaced at 30 x 30 cm

whereas, Pusa Jwala gave the highest ripe pod yield of 41.34 q ha"1 at 30 x

30cm.

Rastogi et al. (1980) Studied in a trial with capsicum cv.

Califonia Wonder, planted at 60 x 45 and 45 x 45 cm spacing received

two level of nitrogen @ 45 and 75 kg/ha and found that yield was highest

with 45 x 45 cm spacing i.e. 3.6 and 6.8 kg in plot of 2.8 x 1.8 at both the

level of nitrogen, respectively.

Gowde et al. (1990) planted 42 day old capsicum seedlings

of cv. California Wonder and Selection-16 at 3 inter-row spacings (40, 50

and 60 cm) and 3 plant densities (40,000, 50,000 and 60,000 plant/ha).

The 60 cm inter-row spacing resulted in the highest number of fruits

plant"1 (7.24), and fruit yield (172.45 q ha'1). The 40,000 plant ha"1

density resulted in the highest number of fruit plant"1 (7.83) with fruit

yield of 340.40 g whereas, highest fruit yield (159.62 q ha"1) was obtained

with 50,000 plant ha"1. This yield did not differ significantly from that with

60,000 plants ha"1 (158.38 q ha"1 ).

Aliya and Yusuf (1991) carried out a field trial at Samara,

Nigeria during 1990 on cultivars UL 2289 and PL 2289 planted at 3 intra-

row spacings (30, 40 and 50 cm) supplied with 4 Nitrogen rates (0, 60,

120 and 189 kg ha ). With respect to intra-row spacing, the greatest

plant height (38.51 cm), leaf number (166.34), number of branches

(35.69) and fruit diameter (9.11 cm) were obtained at the 50 cm spacing,

whereas highest fresh yield (295.3 kg ha"1) was obtained at the 30 cm

spacing.

Experiment carried out on Capsicum annum (cv. California

Wonder) during the rabi season with 4 fertilizer levels (100:37.5:25,

150:75:50, 200:112.5:75 and 250:150:100 kg NPK/ha) and 3 plant

spacings (60 x 30, 60 x 45 and 60 60 cm) by Dharmatti et al. (1991).

Highest total seed yield (80.92 kg ha"1) and seed recovery in the second

and third pickings (71.41 and 53.04 per cent) were obtained with the 50 x

45 cm spacing. Highest seed recovery in the first picking (68. 28 per

cent) was obtained with 60 x 30 cm plant spacing. As seed recovery is

low in the third picking, 2 pickings only could be made for high recovery

of seeds.

Savic and llic (1992) conducted two year trials on cv.

Soroksari. The plants were spaced at 15, 25, 30, 40 and 50 cm apart in

row spacing of 60 cm. The closest spacing ( 60 x 15 cm) produced

highest yield per hactare (514.3 kg ha"1) and lowest yield plant"1 (0.463

kg ha"1). While, the widest spacing produced the lowest yield ha"1(351.6

kg ha"1) and highest yield plant"1 (1.054 kg).

| Experimental work was carried out at Pantnagar on the

optimum seed yield and net income per ha. of chilli (cv. Pant C-1),

during the rainy season of 1986 and 1987 (Gulshan and Lai, 1992). Both

parameters were maximized with a spacing of 45 x 30 cm with application

of 100 kg N ha"1. The treatments did not affect the germination

percentage.

Leskovar et al. (1992) Studied early root and shoot growth

and yield of pungent capsicum cultivars in response to plant

population, planting method and genotypes in the winter Garden of Texus

in 1991. Direct sown Cajun 1 A cayenne pepper seeds at 8, 10, 15, 20,

25 and 30 cm apart within row in spring had increased number of fruits

plant"1 and reduced fruit length with increase in spacing from 10 to 30

cm but yield, fruit weight and diameter were unaffected.

Sanchez et al. (1993) transplanted six-week-old seedling of

cv. Resistant Giant No.4 at 15, 30, 45 and 60 cm apart. Plants grown at

low densities produce larger fruits with the faster seed germination at

higher percentage than the plants grown at higher densities.

Decoteau and Graham (1994) Observed that the yields with

either a 15 cm row spacing in a single row or a 30 cm row spacing in

double rows (both with 44, 400 plant ha"1) were higher than with other

spacing. In general less fruit weight was located in the lower part of the

plant canopy at higher plant population densities with fever fruits plant"1

and more fruits ha"1.

Anez and Figuredo (1994) raised capsicum plant on a sandy

loam soil at row spacing of 0.40, 0.80 and 1.20 m and were supplied with

\l

0, 150, 300 and 450 kg N ha"1 P2O5 100 kg and K2O kg were applied in

all the treatments. N and K were applied in 2 split doses (15 and 60

days after planting). Most plant growth parameters and the average

weight of undamaged fruit (11.55 g) was not affected by treatment but the

yield (t ha"1 and g plant"1) was increased with the decrease in row spacing.

Jankulovski, (1994) raised two varieties at 5 densities,

seed yield was increased in both varieties by reducing the space

available for each plant (i.e. increasing the density) compared with the

control (1400 cm2 plant"1). At 800 cm2 plant"1 the seed yield increase was

22.4 and 17.9 per cent in Kartovita Kapija and Shorok Shari, respectively.

Mishriky and Alphonse (1994) studied the effect of

nitrogen application rates (20, 40 and 60 kg / feddan) in capsicum (cv.

Coliformia Wonder) grown at various plant spacings (30, 40 and 50 cm).

Nitrogen was applied as ammonium sulphate in 2 equal doses, 3 and 6

weeks after transplanting. Increasing the N rate significantly increased

plant height, fruit fresh and dry weight, number of fruit and total fruit yield

per plant, whereas, the number of branches, fruit and yield plant"1 was

decreased with closer plant spacing but the total yield (kg/plot or tonnes

/ feddan) was increased.

Sharma and Peshin (1994) obtained maximum number of

branches, fruits per plant, 1000 seed weight and germination percentage in

sweet pepper at 60 x 45 cm spacing. However, fruit as well as seed yield

was found to be maximum at 30 x 45 cm.

Sontakke et al. (1995) reported highest red chilli yield in

cultivars Pusa-Jwala and Pant C-1 planted as spacing of 30 x 45 than in

45 x 45 or 45 x 60 cm spacing.

Shrivastava (1996) investigated the effects of N+P+K

(200+180+150, 250+200+200 kg ha"1 ) and spacing (60 x 40, 60 x 50 and

60 x 60) on the growth and yield of capsicum cv. Hybrid Bharat and

observed decreased in days to 50 per cent flowering, percentages fruit

set, number of fruits and yield plant"1 and yield ha"1 with increasing

spacing. The interaction between fertilizer rate and spacing was

significant only on days to fruit set and percentage fruit set.

The pepperoncini pepper (Capsicum annum var. annum

cv. Golden Creak) was grown at row spacing of 7.5, 15, 22.5, 30 and 45

cm by Moisenbocker (1996) and noticed that the pepper plant grown at the

15 cm row spacing had the lowest plant stem and leaf dry weight, while

plant at the lowest density (45 cm spacing) had the .highest leaf dry weight

and largest leaf area (L.A.). Total yield and fruit quintal ha"1 were highest

for plant grown at the 7.5 cm spacing but fruit yield plant"1 was lowest.

Maya et al (1997) planted sweet pepper cv. California

Wonder at 60 x 30, 60 x 45 and 60 x 60 cm supplied with 0, 50 and 100 kg

N ha"1 and 0, 50 and 100 kg plant ha"1 . Plant height and yield (12.13

t ha"1) were highest at the closest spacing of 60 x 30 ha"1 cm while,

number of branches per plant, plant growth generally increased as N

and P application rates increased.

Revanappa et al (1997a) found all the fruit parameters

(length, width, volume, number of seed and number of fruit) significantly

better at the widest spacing of 75 x 60 cm in 3 green chilli cultivars

(Nagavi, Pusa Jwala and Kardrolli) although this spacing recorded the

lowest yield ha"1. Poor fruit parameter were observed at the closest

spacing (60 x 30 cm), although, the highest yield ha"1 were obtained

from this treatment.

Revanappa et al. (1997b) observed that the closest

spacing recorded the highest yield and net returns at the cost of quality

parameters (TSS and ascorbic acid). The negative relation between

yield and quality was confirmed. The interaction effect of varieties and

spacing treatments with respect to yield and quality parameters were

non-significant during both the season of investigation.

Viloria et al. (1997) recorded height and diameter of the

main stem, height, fresh and dry weight of the stem, leaf, number of

branches and number of flowers in the branches measured at 35 and 80

days after planting in row plant spacing of 10, 15 or 20 cm in double rows

(60 cm apart) and found significant decrease in the evaluated characters

with the spacing reduced from 20 x 60 to 10 x 60 cm, except for the height

of the main stem.

Arteaga et al. (1999) noted in row plant spacing of 10, 15 and

20 cm in double row 60 cm apart with the sampling performed between

54 and 100 days after transplanting that fresh fruit weight descended to

an exponential rate with crop age and exponentially increased as planting

distance and fruit parameter measurement increased in bell pepper. Dry

mass was not significantly affected by planting distance and increased to

a positive exponential rates as time elapsed.

2.2 Effect of foliar sprays of micronutrient on vegetativegrowth

2.2.1 Zinc

Ranotkar (1981) found that the foliar application of ZnSO4

has increased the vegetative growth of chilli plants.

Hooda et a/. (1984) concluded that in the experiment with

0.05 per • cent ZnSO4 as foliar spray and 7.50 kg ha"1 ZnSO4 soil

application, the foliar application of ZnSO4 increased height of plant,

number of branches in tomato crop.

Bose and Tripathi (1986) conducted an experiment on

tomato variety Pusa Ruby and reported that the combined spraying of Zn,

Fe, Mn and B @ 0.2 per cent resulted in maximum height of the plant

81.56 cm and number of branches per plant and was closely followed

by Zn+Fe+B, Zn+Mn+B and Zn+B which were at par. Similarly Zinc

alone increased plant height and number of branches.

The foliar spray of zinc at 0.1 per cent produced maximum

plant height in chilli (Husain et a/., 1989).

A trial on chilli var. Jawala was conducted by Dod et a/.,

(1989) and reported that spray at full bloom (50 day after planting and

again after an interval of 21 days) with 0.2 per cent ZnSO4 , exhibited

increased plant height, number of branches, stem diameter and leaf

area.

Singh et al. (1989) noticed significant increase in the height

and number of effective branches per plant with the application of 20 kg

ZnS04 ha"1 + 0.5 per cent foliar spray before flowering in capsicum.

Singh and Verma (1991) conducted two years trial with

tomato cv. Pusa Ruby and reported that the application of K at 120 kg

ha"1 and Zn at 10 kg ha"1 alone or in combination exhibited optimum plant

growth.

Maximum leaf area of chilli plant was observed by Ingle et

al. (1993) when plants were sprayed with 0.2 per cent ZnSO4, similarly

plant height, number of branches and stem diameter were increased over

untreated plants.

Ravichandran et al. (1995) stuidied that effect of Zn on yield

and quality of brinjal var. Annamalai was studied in a silty clay loam which

was deficient in Zn. The results revealed that soil application of Zn

SO4 (25 kg ha"1 ) and 0.5 per cent Zn foliar spray 30 DAT recorded

highest fruit yield, number of fruits per plant"1, dry mQtterproduction and

plant height. But soil application of Zn SO4 25 kg/ha recorded highest

individual fruit weight.

2.2.2 Iron

Husain et a/ (1989) reported that combined spray of zinc,

born and iron increases the chilli plant height when sprayed at the rate of

0.1 per cent.

Wang (1990) observed decrease in the plant weight of sweet

pepper with lowest concentration of ferric iron, Ferrous or Ferric iron at

0.35, 0.7or1.4ppm. Average total plant dry weight with ferric iron was

only 60 per cent of that with ferrous iron, similar effect on fresh weight of

plant parts and on root length were found in sweet pepper.

Mehrotra (1992) observed that the Fe deficiency in

capsicum resulted in markedly depressed plant growth.

Kumbhar and Deshmuk (1993) found maximum height of

plant (68.28 cm) by addition of iron sulphate @ 12.0 kg/ha followed by

the addition of iron sulphate @ 8.0 kg ha"1 75 days after

transplanting in tomato crop.

From Rewa (M.P.), Bose and Tripathi (1996) reported that

iron @ 0.2 per cent increases the height and number of branches per

plant over check in tomato.

2.2.3 Boron

Butnaru et al. (1971) reported that 0.1 per cent boron

stimulated plant growth in pungent pepper.

Singh and Verma (1971) noticed that application of boron

2 kg ha"1 resulted in optimum plant growth in tomato crop.

Hooda et al. (1984) reported boron 0.25 per cent foliar

spray increases height of tomato plant and number of branches. Boron +

Zinc sulphate (0.25 + 0.50 per cent) produced maximum number of

branches.

Husain et al. (1989) found that boron spray on chilli plant @

0.1 per cent increases the height of plant over control.

Desiraju et al. (1992) Stated that the boron deficiency

significantly reduced both root growth and dry weight of tomato and okra

seedlings.

Gunes et al. (1999) reported with four levels of boron and

three levels of zinc on tomato that increased. Levels of boron

increased the concentration of boron in plant growth tissue to a greater

extent in the absence of applied Zn. Both Zn and B treatments

increased Zn concentration of the plant.

2.2.4 Copper

Ravichandran et al (19,95) reported that soil application of Cu

SO4 (12.5 kg ha"1 ) and 0.5 per cent foliar spray of Cu 30 days after

transplanting recorded highest dry matter production and plant height in

brinjal crop.

2.3 Effect of foliar spray of micronutrients on yield andreproductive characters

2.3.1 Zinc

Dobroljubskii (1955) found that Mn, Zn, and Cu sulphates

applied alone or in combination improved flowering, fruiting and

earliness in egg plant as compared with the control.

Pillai (1967) in the experiment found that all combinations

of copper, zinc and maganese were beneficial in increasing yield of chilli.

Aliev (1968) reported that in Zn micronutrient trial on tomato

grown in container observed earlier flowering and fruit ripening with

Zn but higher doses shortened the fruit bearing phase though the

increase in yield was by 9 to 12 per cent.

Butnaru et al. (1971) reported an early and prolific yield with

foliar spray of 0.03 per cent zinc in pungent pepper.

Fekete (1974) from three years trial concluded that K as 1

and 2 per cent K2O (in 1st and 2nd spray respectively) + Zn as 44 ppm

ZnSO4 gave 21 more yield and mean fruit weight in capsicum.

Ashour (1975) suggest that application of 100 ppm ZnSO4

improved vegetative growth and increased fruit setting and total yield of

tomato as compared to control.

Arora et al (1983) recorded maximum number of fruit set

from 50 ppm PCPA + 25 ppm M0 + 700 ppm Zn sprayed plant (17.40)

whereas, least fruit set occurred in untreated plant (6.8). Similarly

1J3

maximum number of fruits per plant (29.7) and early yield was reorderd

in same treatments (29.7) whereas untreated plants produced least

number of fruit per plant in tomato.

Muthukrishnan et al. (1983) reported that the pepper

plants sprayed with chelets of Cu, Zn, Mn and Fe for five times at 15 days

interval increased the yield.

Foliar spray of zinc @ 0.1 per cent significantly increased the

number of fruit plant"1 fruit length, seed / fruit, yield ha"1 and also

increased fruit girth and seed weight of chilli, (Husain et al. 1989).

Under Akola condition, Dod et al. (1989) reported that he

foliar application of ZnSO4 @ 0.2 per cent on chilli crop gave earliest fruit

harvest (99.4 days) and less fruit drop (41.6 per cent) as compared

control (i.e. 10.4 days and 51.41 per cent, respectively).

Singh et al. (1989) reported highest seed yield in both year

180.55 and 79.35 kg ha"1 , respectively applied with 20 kg ZnSO4 ha"1 as

basal + 0.5 per cent as a foliar spray before flowering in capsicum.

Ingle et al. (1993) reported that foliar application of 10 ppm

NAA alone and NAA 10 ppm + urea 1 per cent + 0.2 per cent ZnSO4,

produced significant increase in chilli yield by 41.04 per cent and 38.39

per cent and reduced the fruit drop by 6.84 per cent and 7.92 per cent

respectively over water sprayed plants.

Kaminwar and Rajagopal (1993) stated that Zn 0.5 g was

required to produce one quintal of dry chilli fruits.

Deshmukh (1993) observed that the ZnSO4 @ 0.2 per cent

increased number of seeds, weight of seed and ascorbic acid content in

green chilli.

2.3.2 Iron

Navrot and Levin (1976) reported increased yield of pepper

fruits with foliar application of chelates (B + Cu + Zn + Mn + Fe).

In a field experiment at Rajendranagar, Husain et a/. (1989)

found that foliar spray of iron at 0.1 per cent increased the fruits per

plant, seeds per fruit and yield ha"1 in chilli.

Dwivedi and Dwivedi (1991) conducted field experiment to

find out mode of application of micronutrients in potato and reported that

the foliar spray of Fe @ 10 kg ha"1 as sulphate salts resulted in higher

tuber yield (6.95 per cent) over control followed by seed soaking with

0.05 per cent. Fe solution and tuber yield increased (6.85 per cent)

over control and soil application resulted decreased yield (-4.65 per cent)

over control.

Kaminwar and Rajagopal (1993) recommended 8.5 g, Fe to

produce one quintal dry pods in chilli.

The application of 8.0 kg ferrous sulphate ha"1 was best in

respect of fruit yield and dry matter production in tomato crop (Kumbhar

and Deshmukh, 1993).

2-1

2.3.3 Boron

The combined spray of zinc, boron and iron application of

devimicroshakti through soil or its foliar spray significantly increased

the green yield of chillies, prolific bearing of fruits per plants large fruit size

and more seed per fruit. Spraying of boron also stimulated significant

improvement in yield over control was observed by Husain et al. (1989).

Rajamani et al. (1990) stated significant impact of boron on

successful induction of increased number of flowers in chilli and in chilli

-- . improved fruit set resulted in to increased yield.

Bose and Tripathi (1996) reported in tomato that boron

which enhances the flower bud initiation and fruit setting resulted in

increase in yield.

Prasad et al (1997) reported that Boron application

significantly increased tomato yield as compared to control treatment

with the highest average yield produced on plots given a foliar

application of 2.5 kg bordx ha"1. Foliar application of borax also gave the

highest average yield 143.66 kg ha"1.

•2-2-

2.4 Effect of foliar spray of micronutrietns on qualityof chilli

2.4.1 Zinc

Zinc as 44 ppm ZnSO4 recommended in capsicum by Fekete

(1974) found best result in increasing mean fruit weight and vitamin c.

content.

Ranotakar (1981) recorded that foliar application of

ZnSO4 increased the length, diameter and ascorbic acid content in chilli

fruit.s

Dod et al. (1989) reported increase in ascorbic acid content

over water spray with foliar spray of ZnSO4 at the of 0.2 per cent.

Husain et al. (1989) observed that zinc @ 0.1 per cent

significantly increased the fruit length, fruit girth and ascorbic acid

content over control.

The significant increase in ascorbic acid content of chilli fruit

with spray of ZnSO4 @ o.2 per cent was noticed with increase in length

and diameter of fruits, number of seeds per fruit and weight of seed .

(Ingle et al, 1989).

Deshmukh (1993) observed that the ZnSO4 @ 0.2 per cent

increases number of seed, weight of seed and ascorbic acid content in

green chillies.

2.4.2 Iron

The colour of chilli fruit was improved (Navrot and Levin,

1976), when FeSO4 applied @ 12 kg ha"1.

Husain et a/. (1989) recorded non-significant result with foliar

spray of Fe (0.1 per cent). But combined spray of zinc, boron and iron

increased the fruit length, fruit girth seed per fruit and ascorbic acid

content in chilli.

Bose and Tripathi (1996) in the experiment conducted in

tomato found that spray of iron at 0.1 per cent, reduced the craking of

fruits:

2.4.3 Boron

Albegov and Ratskerich (1972) conducted from two yeaistrial

with minor elements, applied at beginning of bud formation or before

flowering that the boron application increases fruit dry matter content by

10 per cent, sugar by 15 to 17 per cent and also increase in vitamin C

content in capsicum.

Rochkovskaya (1975) reported that the trace elements (B,

Cu, Zn and Mg) applied by seed soaking one day before sowing in 0-0.01,

0-0.02 or 0-0.03 per cent solutions and foliar application produced the

highest sugar and ascorbic acid contents in tomato.

Husain et al. (1989 ) on the contrary recorded none of the

micronutrient treatments improved the quality of green chillies in

terms of ascorbic acid content.

The colour of chilli fruits was improved by spraying boron

reported by Muthukrishnan et al. (1993).

2.4.4 Copper

Ravichandran et al. (1995) found that 0.15 per cent foliar

spray of Cu 30 DAT recorded highest fruit yield, number of fruits per

plant and ascorbic acid content in brinjal crop.

2.5 Inter-relationship between spacing and micronutrients

Singh et al. (1989) found in 2-year trials in the rainy season

with the cultivar Faizabad at a planting density of 1, 2 or 3 seedling / hill,

the plants received ZnSCU at 0, 20 or 40 kg ha"1 as a basal dose or at 20

kg ha"1 basal + 0.5 per cent as a foliar spray before flowering. The

highest seed yield in both year (80.55 and 79.35 kg ha"1, respectively)

was obtained with the combined soil + foliar application at the highest

planting density .

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Chapter-III

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The investigation entitled "Effect of spacing and

micronutrients on seed production of chilli (Capsicum frutescens L.)

under Chhattisgarh region" was conducted at Horticultural research

Farm, Department of Horticulture, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya,

Raipur (M.P.) during rabi season in the year 1999-2000.

3.1 Location and Climate

Raipur is located in the south-eastern part of Madhya

Pradesh popularly known as Chhattisgarh, at 21° 16' N latitude and 81°36'

E longitude and at an altitude of 298.56 meters from mean sea level.

Raipur has subhumid agroclimatic conditions. The average rainfall of this

region is 1000-1350 mm, most of which (about 82 per cent ) is received

during monsoon season (June to September) and the rest during post

monsoon and winter season. The weekly maximum and minimum

temperature, relative humidity, rainfall, evaporation and sunshine hours

during the period of experiment are given in Table 3.1 and illustrated in

Fig. 3.1

The details of material used and methodology followed in the

present investigation is mention as below :

Table 3.1 : Weekly meteorological parameter prevailing during thecrop period (3 Sept. 1999 to 1 April, 2000)

Met. WeekRainfall Temperature (°C)

(mm) Maxi. Mini.Relative Wind Evopo-humidity velocity ration

I II (kms/hr)3-9 Sept10-1 6 Sept17-23 Sept24-30 Sept1-7Oct8-14Oct15-20Oct22-28 Oct29 Oct - 4 Nov5-11 Nov12-1 8 Nov19-25 Nov26 Nov. - 2 Dec3-9 Dec10-16 Dec.17-23 Dec24-31 Dec1 Jan - 7 Jan8-14 Jan15-21 Jan22-28 Jan29 Jan - 4 Feb5-1 1 Feb12-18 Feb19-25 Feb26 Feb-4 March5-11 March12-1 8 March19-25 March26 March-1AprlTotalMean

3.031.2

134.157.012.6

1.21.06.20.00.00.00.00.00.00.00.00.00.00.00.00.00.00.0

14.223.6

5.80.00.00.00.0

289.99.7

30.528.727.630.531.331.530.030.330.131.727.627.628.428.026.826.527.926.929.429.529.929.029.528.726.729.033.834.335.336.6

893.629.8

24.323.923.123.623.423.021.120.220.518.512.09.9

10.311.79.87.8

10.47.6

10.012.511.911.615.615.614.614.115.515.116.616.7

470.915.7

919344929194949390909092928991909288868486858178898673686261

2535.084.5

778488757261606060474031334034333734294734344748562819151914

1356.045.2

6.58.37.84.72.63.23.82.74.11.82.02.11.61.72.21.91.51.91.93.32.23.04.14.54.34.63.84.84.33.5

104.73.5

(mm)3.33.11.53.64.04.43.73.53.83.53.63.42.92.62.92.82.72.83.23.9

' 3.84.04.63.93.74.96.00.00.01.0

97.13.2

Sun-shine(hour)

0.00.00.00.00.00.00.00.00.08.89.78.89.28.68.30.17.68.79.18.49.49.37.25.96.27.29.6

10.19.97.1

169.25.6

3.2 Physico-Chemical Characteristics of the Soil

The soil of the experimental field was clay loam. Before

laying out the experiment, soil samples were collected randomly from 10

places upto a depth of 30 cm. The composite sample was analysed and

the mean values were worked out. The physico-chemical analysis of the

soil has been summarized in Table 3..2.

Table 3.2 : Physico-chemical properties of the soil

Particulars Value Class/group Method

a. Mechnical analyis

1.

2.

3.

Sand (%)

Silt (%)

Clay (%)

22.58

32.54

12.01

Clay loam

(Dorsa)

International pipette

method

b. Chemical Analysis

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Organic carbon (%)

Available nitrogen (kg ha"1 )

Available phosphorus (kg ha"1 )

Available potash (kg ha"1)

Soil reaction (pH)

Electrical conductivity

Available zinc (mg/kg"1)

Available iron (mg/kg"1)

Available copper (mg/kg"1)

0.50

220.00

10.00

260.00

6.30

0.78

0.61

16.82

2.11

Low

Low

Medium

Medium

Slightly

acidic

Medium

Low

Medium

Medium

Walkey Blacks's

Modified Kejeldhal

Olsen method

Flame photometer

Glass electrode pH

meter method

Conductivity method

Atomic

absorption

spectrophotometer

3.3 Experiment Details :

1. Crop

2. Cultivar

3. Design of the experiment

Chilli (Capsicum frutescens L)

Pusa Sadabahar

Factorial Randomized Block Design

4. Number of replication :

5. Number of treatment :

6. Total number of plots

7. Net plot size :

8. Distance between replication :

9. Distance between two plot :

10. Gross area :

11. Total Net area :

3.4 Treatment Details

3

20

60

3.6x1.8 meter (6.48m2)

0.75 meter

0.5 meter

586.5 sq. meter

388.8 sq. meter

There were twenty treatment combination of four spacing

(30 x 30, 30 x 45, 30 x 60 and 45 x 45 cm) and five micronutrients including

water sprays as control. These micronutrients were zinc, copper, boron

and iron sprayed @ 0.5 per cent foliar spray. The details of these are

given below :

a. Spacing (S)1.30x30 cm 81

2. 30x45 cm S2

3. 30 x 60 cm S3

4. 45 x 45 cm S4

b. Micronutrients sprays (M)1. Boron 0.5 per cent M-i

2. Zinc 0.5 per cent M2

3. Copper 0.5 per cent M3

4. Iron 0.5 per cent M4

5. Water spray (control) M5

c. Spacing x Micronutrient sprays

Treatmentcombination(SxM)

Detail of treatments

S-iM-i 30 x 30 cm x 0.5 per cent boron spray

SiM2 30 x 30 cm x 0.5 per cent zinc spray

S-|M3 30 x 30 cm x 0.5 per cent copper spray

S-|M4 30 x 30 cm x 0.5 per cent iron spray

S-|M5 30 x 30 cm x water spray (control)

S2M-i 30 x 45 cm x 0.5 per cent boron spray

S2M2 30 x 45 cm x 0.5 per cent zinc spray

S2M3 30 x 45 cm x 0.5 per cent copper spray

SalVU 30 x 45 cm x 0.5 per cent iron spray

S2M5 30 x 45 cm x water spray (control)

S3M-i 30 x 60 cm x 0.5 per cent boron spray

S3M2 30 x 60 cm x 0.5 per cent zinc spray

S3M3 30 x 60 cm x 0.5 per cent copper spray

S3M4 30 x 60 cm x 0.5 per cent iron spray

S3M5 30 x 60 cm x water spray (control)

S4Mi 45 x 45 cm x 0.5 per cent born spray

S4M2 45 x 45 cm x 0.5 per cent zinc spray

S4M3 45 x 45 cm x 0.5 per cent copper spray

S4M4 45 x 45 cm x 0.5 per cent iron spray

S4M5 45 x 45 cm x water spray (control)

3.5 Nursery raising

Raised nursery beds of 10 x1 x 0 . 1 2 m were prepared on

well ploughed and levelled field. A well rotten cattle dung manure @ 50 kg

per nursery bed was well mixed in the soil with help of spade. Seeds were

treated with thiram @ 2.5 kg"1 of seeds and than sown in lines 10 cm apart

on 3 September 1999 @ 1 kg seed ha"1. The seeds after sowing were

covered by sieved well rotten F.Y.M. and the bed was covered with the

grass. It was irrigated with the help of hazara as per need. The grass

covered on the nursery bed, was removed immediately after germination.

Fungicide, Dithane M-45 @ 0.25 per cent after germination was sprayed

at ten days interval after germination, to protect the seedlings from

damping off disease. Malathion @ 1 ml per liter of water was sprayed as

precaution from insects.

3.6 Land preparation

The land was well prepared before transplanting with help of

harrow. Prior to harrowingtwell decomposed F.Y.M. @ of 200 q ha"1 was

incorporated uniformly in the experimental plot, than the plot was divided in

to beds having net size 3.6 x 1.8 m. In all, there were 60 plots divided in

to three replication with 586.5 sq. meter gross area covered by experiment.

3.7 Transplanting of seedlings

The uniform and healthy seedlings of about five weeks old

were transplanted in experimental plots on 7th October 1999.

Transplanting was done at a spacing of 30 x 30, 30 x 45, 45 x 45 and 30 x

60 cm with one seedling per hill after treating with Dithane M-45 @ 0.25

per cent solution.

3.8 Fertilizer application

The recommended dose of chemical fertilisers @ 100 kg N,

50 kg P and 50 kg K2O per hacter was applied through urea, single super

phosphate and muriate of potash, respectively. Nitrogen was applied in

three split doses i.e. 50 per cent at transplanting, 25 per cent at 30 days

after transplanting (DAT) and rest 25 per cent at 45 DAT, phosphorus and

potash was applied uniformly to each plot as basal dose.

3.9 Irrigation and Inter culture operation

Total seven irrigation was given during the crop period at an

interval of 15 days. The weeds were completely removed at the time of

field preparation, At later growth stages four hand weddings at 20, 45, 75

and 95 DAT were sufficient to keep the plot weed free.

3.10 Preparation of Micronutrients solution

The solution of micronutrients i.e. zinc, iron, born and copper

of same concentrations (0.5 per cent) were prepared separately by

dissolving the required quantity of zinc sulphate, ferrous sulphate, borax,

and copper sulphate, respectively in water. The lime was added @ 50 per

cent of the quantity used for zinc sulphate, farrous sulphate and copper

sulphate spray solutions to neutralize the acidity.

32-

The first spray was given on 25 DAT and rest of the four

sprays were made at an interval of 25 days with the help of Kanpsack

sprayer. Spraying was done in such as way that the whole plant was

covered uniformly.

3.11 Plant protection measures

The adequate plant protection measures were adopted to

control the major insect pests and disease during crop period by spraying

0.15 per cent monocrotophos or endosulphun blended with 0.2 per cent.

Sulfex 80 W.P. or Dithane M-45 @ 0.25 per cent in water. Which

protected the crop from the insects particularly thirps and major prevalent

diseases which affects the crop adversely.

3.12 Harvesting

The picking of fruits was done when the colour of fruits turned

to bright red. In all 3 pickings were under taken from the net plot area of

6.48 gm. Fruits of five plants selected randomly were picked up

separately for studying the various growth and yield attributes.

3.13 Threshing and winnowing

The threshing of fruits were done after sun drying of the fruits

by wooden sticks keeping the dry fruits inside the gunny bag. Later the

seeds were removed by hand winnowing with help of winnowing basket

and sieves.

Observation schedule

In order to get representative samples five plants were

selected in each plot randomly and demarcated with bamboo pegs for

studying the various growth and yield attributed.

3.14.1 Growth character

3.14.1.1 Height of the plant

In order to study the growth factor five plants per plot were

selected for observations. Height was measured in centimetre from

ground level and the growing tip just before the spray of each micronutrent

and the last at 25 days after the final spray. Thus the plant height was

recorded at 25, 50, 75, 100 and 125 days after planting and average height

plant"1 was calculated.

3.14.1.2 Stem girth

The stem girth of five randomly selected plants at just above

the soil surface was measured with the help of thread and scale at 25, 50,

75, 100 and 125 days after planting just before each sprays and the

average was calculated.

3.14.1.3 Number of primary branches plant'1

Five observation for number of primary branches plant"1 from

all the tagged plants were recorded plot wise at the interval of 25 days after

planting and mean were calculated. Except final observations, rest of the

observations were recorded just before the spray of micronutrients.

3.14.1.4 Number of secondary branches plant"1

Number of secondary branches were counted from all five

tagged plants at 50, 75, 100 and 125 days after planting and average was

worked out.

3.14.1.5 Number of leaves plant"1

Number of leaves plant"1 of five randomly selected plants

were counted five times at the interval of 25 days after planting and

average was worked out.

3.14.1.6 Spread of plant

Horizontal spread parallel to ground of five selected plants

were recorded at 125 days after planting with the help of meter scale and

means values were calculated.

3.14.1.7 Leaf area plant"1

Leaves area per plant was calculated by plotting twenty five

leaves from five randomly selected plants on graph paper. The traced

area was counted and average leaf area was calculated later it was

multiplied with the total number of leaves giving the leaf area per plant.

3.14.2 Yield contributing characters

3.14.2.1 Days to first flowering

First flowering days were recorded from the five selected

plants at an interval of two days and means were calculated.

3.14.2.2 Days to 50 per cent flowering

The date was noted when fifty per cent flowering was

observed from each plot and later the days took to 50 per cent flowering

after transplanting was calculated.

3.14.2.3 Per cent fruit set

A branch was selected from each tagged plant for counting

flowering and fruiting. The total number of flowers on the selected branch

were counted from these five plants and similarly total number of fruits

from same branch were recorded per cent fruit set was calculated with the

help of formula as given below :

Number of fruits branch-1Per cent fruit set = x 100

Number of flowers branch"1

3.14.2.4 Fresh weight of fruits

Ten fruits were randomly selected from each treatment and

their weight was measured with help of electronic balance and their

average was calculated.

3.14.2.5 Dry weight of fruits

Ten fresh ripped fruits weight was recorded or mentioned

above and dried in the hot air oven at 55 °C temperature. Weight of dried

fruits was recorded with help of electronic balance and their average was

calculated.

3.14.2.6 Number of fruit plant*1

Number of fruits plant"1 were counted from each tagged

plants at every harvesting. After the final harvest the number of fruits of

every picking were total calculated.

3.14.2.7 Number of seed fruit*1

Ten full matured ripe fruits from each treatment and

replication were threshed and seeds were counted, then the average

number of seeds fruit"1 was calculated.

3.14.2.8 Pedicel length of fruit

The pedicel length of randomly selected ten fruits from each

treatment and replication was measured with the help of scale. Average

was calculated.

3.14.2.9 Length of fruit

The fruit length of randomly selected ten fruits of each

treatment and replication was measured and average was calculated.

3.14.2.10 Girth of fruits

Fruit girth was measured with the help of thread and scale of

randomly selected ten fruits from each treatment and replication and

average was calculated.

3.14.2.11 Yield per hectare (q)

Total weight of fruits harvested per plot was also recorded at

the time of each picking and yield per hactare was calculated.

Yield (kg) plot"1 10000Yield q ha"' = x

Area of plot in square meters 100

-1

3.14.2.12 1000 seed weight

1000 seed weight were taken from each treatment and

replication with the help of each treatment and replication with the help of

electronic balance and their average was calculated.

3.14.2.13 Germination percentage

For seed germination percentage, 100 seeds were counted

from each treatment and replication and seed were kept in germinator at

25°C temperature. First counting of seedling was done after 7 days and

latter final counting after 14 days, germination percentage was worked out

considering the final count and average was calculated.

3.15 Economics

Economics analysis of the different treatments were worked

out as per the rates of inputs and wages prevailing the course of study.

3.16 Statistical analysis

The present experimental data was analysed statistically by

the techniques of analysis of variance or applicable to factorial randomised

block design (Panse and Sukhatme, 1967). The significance of the

treatment was tested by "F" test value. Critical difference (C.D.) at 5 per

cent level of significance was worked out for comparison and statistical

interpretations of significant treatment means. The standard error of

difference was given in each case for significant treatment effect. Critical

difference (C.D.) of different spacing, micronutriens and their interaction at

5 per cent level of probability was calculated, where ever "F" test was

significantly.

EXPERIMENTAL FINDINGS

Chapter-IV

EXPERIMENTAL FINDINGS

The results obtained in the investigation entitled "Effect of

spacing and micronutrients on seed production of Chilli (Capsicum

frutescens L.) under Chhattisgarh region" are presented in this

chapter.

4.1 Growth characters

4.1.1 Plant height (cm)

The plant height recorded at 25, 50,75,100 and 125 days

after transplanting are presented in Table 4.1 and shown in Fig. 4.1

The observations recorded indicates continuous increase in

height from the initial observation i.e. 25 to 125 days after transplanting

(DAT). The rate of increase in height was increasing up to 50 DAT, later it

was increasing with decreasing rate between 50 to 75 DAT. But it was

again increased with decreasing rate between 100-125 DAT (Fig. 4.2).

The plant height was found to be affected significantly by

spacing and it was higher in closer spacing (30 x 30 cm), while it was

reduced in wider spacing of 30 x 60 cm. However, the final observation at

125 DAT showed significant effect of spacing with the maximum height

(40.77 cm) of plant at 30 x 30 cm spacing which was at par with S2 (39.67

cm), while the minimum was 37.08 at S3 (30 x 60 cm), but statistically at

par with S4 (37.98).

Table 4.1 Effect of spacing and micronutrient sprays on plantheight of chilli.

Plant height (cm)Treatments

Spacing(S)81S2

S3

S4

SE(m) +CD at 5%

25 DAT

13.5113.1512.1510.910.581.63

50 DAT

21.8320.6019.8019.860.511.45

75 DAT

27.2224.2725.8726.12

0.621.74

100 DAT

37.0335.2633.2532.540.701.94

125 DAT

40.7739.6737.0837.980.581.60

Micronutrients(M)MiM2

M3

M4

M5

SE(m) +CD at 5%

12.6013.3913.1111.8111.24

-NS

Treatment combination (SSiMiSiM2

SiM3

8^4

SiM5

S2MTS2M2

S2M3

S2M4S2M5SsM!S3M2

S3M3

S3M4

S3MsS4M!S4M2

S4M3

S4M4

S4M5

Mean heightof plantSE(m) +CD at 5%

13.3613.9713.6113.7412.8512.2116.2413.9512.8510.5112.2912.7813.1510.8111.7412.5410.5711.7409.8409.87

12.43-

NS

20.7321.1520.0020.3420.41

-NS

xM)22.5022.5721.6721.9721.4320.8722.1516.2022.5121.2820.1520.0020.4818.1720.2019.4019.8721.6319.7018.71

20.52-

NS

26.3226.7924.5825.9825.68

-NS

27.5929.2725.5027.0726.6523.9325.1121.1024.5026.7226.9627.1124.7525.9624.5726.8225.6826.9726.3724.76

25.87-

NS

36.7535.9033.0735.6931.200.782.15

39.8139.2835.1738.9731.9437.3637.5132.8836.3132.2734.3734.5832.7334.6429.9535.4732.2431.5332.8530.64

34.52-

NS

40.8840.2437.5039.8735.860.651.80

43.1742.6740.2740.6737.0842.9641.3437.0640.5136.5037.8338.3436.3438.2734.6039.5838.6336.4040.0735.26

38.87-

NS

DAT - Days after transplanting . NS - Non significant

The height of plant was significantly influenced by 0.5 per

cent foliar spray of different micronutrients (viz. B, Zn, Cu, and Fe) at 100

and 125 DAT. Whereas, there was no significant influence at 25, 50 and

75 DAT. The maximum plant height was 40.88 cm, significantly higher at

125 DAT with the spray of boron @ 0.5 per cent i.e. (M-,) which was

statistically at par with M2 (40.24 cm) and M4 (39.87cm). The minimum

plant height was observed 35.86 cm in treatment M5 (i.e. water spray).

Thus the plant height was found to be significantly higher in

the closest spacing of 30 x 30 cm (81) and the micronutrient sprays

treatment M-I. Though the height was not affected significantly at different

treatments combinations of spacing and micronutrient at all the stages,

whereas, the maximum height was 43.17 cm with combination of SiM-i and

minimum was 34.60 cm with treatment combination S3M5.

4.1.2 Stem girth (cm)

The observation for stem girth are presented in Table 4.2 and

shown in Fig 4.3.

The stem girth was significantly influenced by spacing at

75,100 and 125 DAT. While it was not significant at 25 and 50 DAT. The

maximum stem girth was 4.35 cm at 125 DAT recorded in 83 (30 x 60 cm)

which was statistically at par with S4 (4.11 cm) and S2 (4.09 cm). Whereas,

the minimum stem girth was 4.07 cm, recorded in Si

Stem girth was to increased with increasing rate up to 50

DAT. Later, it increased with decreasing rate between 50 to 75 DAT, but

Table 4.2 Effect of spacing and micronutrient sprays on stemgirth of chilli

Stem qirth (cm)TreatmentsSpacing(S)81S2

S3

S4

SE(m) +CD at 5%Micronutrients(M)M!M2

M3

M4

M5

SE(m) +CD at 5%

25 DAT

1.201.271.231.29-

NS

1.271.291.251.301.13

-NS

Treatment combination (SSMSiM2

S^s

SiM4

SiM5S2MiS2M2

S2M3

S2M4

S2M5

S3M-iS3M2

S3M3

S3M4

S3M5

S4M!

S4M2

S4M3

S4M4

S4M5

Mean girth of stemSE(m) ±CD at 5%

1.151.271.171.271.121.311.271.251.341.171.211.211.351.291.111.411.401.241.301.121.24

-NS

50 DAT

2.172.342.342.38-

NS

2.322.622.372.301.92

0.070.21

xM)2.482.442.272.231.402.312.672.342.242.142.292.612.452.282.072.202.782.402.432.072.31

-NS

75 DAT

2.772.812.853.040.060.15

2.943.102.822.972.53

0.600.17

2.903.042.733.002.202.893.162.572.812.652.932.942.883.122.373.023.253.092.942.892.86

-NS

100 DAT

3.443.423.753.530.090.25

3.613.863.483.493.25

0.100.28

3.703.583.373.313.233.483.703.473.253.213.674.223.524.053.303.603.913.543.543.253.53

-NS

125 DAT

4.074.094.354.110.080.28

4.164.644.074.133.78

0.090.25

4.144.474.073.893.783.974.714.073.923.794.215.173.984.713.694.314.214.174.003.874.150.180.51

DAT - Days after transplanting . NS - Non significant

it was slightly increased between 75 to 100 DAT than between 50-75 DAT

and again decreased between 100 to125 days of planting.

Stem girth showed significant effect at 50, 75, 100 and 125

by the different micronutrient sprays @ 0.5 per cent of Zn, B, Cu and Fe.

The maximum stem girth was 4.64 cm, at 125 DAT. It was significantly

higher with the spray of Zn (M2) and followed by sprays of B (M-i ) and Fe

(M4) which were statistically at par with value of 4.16 cm and 4.13 cm,

respectively. The minimum stem girth was (3.78 cm) recorded at all the

stages of growth with spray of water (i.e. M5).

The interaction between spacing and micronutrient was found

to be significant for the stem girth at 125 DAT only. The maximum stem

girth was 5.17 cm at the final observation i.e. 125 DAT in the treatment

combinations of wider spacing (30 x 60 cm) with micronutrients spray of Zn

(SaMa), which was statistically at par with 4.71 cm in both S3M4 and S2M2.

The minimum stem girth was 3.69 cm recorded in combination of SsMs.

4.1.3 Number of primary branches per plant

The data on number of primary branches are presented in

Table 4.3 and illustrated Fig 4.4.

The result revealed that the number of primary branches

increased from the first observation till the last one (i.e.25 to 125 DAT). It

was increasing with increasing rate up to 75 DAT, later increased with

decreasing rate between 75 to 100 DAT. Again the increase was more

between 100 to 125 DAT (Fig. 4.4.).

Table 4.3 Effect of spacing and micronutrient sprays onnumber of primary branches of chilli.

Number of primary branches/DlantTreatments 25 DATSpacing(S)81S2

S3

S4

SE(m) +CD at 5%Micronutrients(M)M,M2

M3

M4

M5

SE(m) +CD at 5%

3.013.033.353.45-

NS

3.183.593.243.042.99

-NS

Treatment combination (SS^M^SiM2

SiM3

8^4

SiM5

S2MiS2M2

S2M3

S2M4

S2M5

SslVhS3M2

S3M3

S3M4

S3M5

84!̂S4M2

S4M3

S4M4

S4M5

Mean numberof primarybranchesSE(m) +CD at 5%

3.682.823.482.342.742.803.612.682.943.143.043.473.673.013.603.224.473.203.882.47

3.21-

NS

50 DAT

3.953.954.244.790.200.56

4.564.704.104.003.80

0.230.64

xM)4.474.543.683.543.544.344.413.813.613.604.344.384.803.873.795.095.474.335.004.07

4.23-

NS

75 DAT

5.055.325.465.940.230.36

5.725.625.475.584.82-

NS

5.014.875.804.804.776.535.074.835.814.345.605.675.345.744.975.736.875.916.005.17

5.44-

NS

100 DAT

6.136.146.606.67-

NS

6.577.066.486.005.800.300.84

6.276.946.015.745.676.746.076.406.005.476.417.537.515.605.406.877.706.007.215.57

6.38-

NS

125 DAT

6.977.477.897.960.280.80

7.958.387.617.426.500.310.89

7.747.107.206.636.177.647.277.407.246.818.618.317.508.546.507.809.858.337.276.53

7.57-

NSDAT - Days after transplanting . NS - Non significant

The effect of spacing at 50, 75 and 125 DAT was found

significant in case of number of primary branches per plant whereas, it

was non-significant at 25 and 100 DAT. At the final observation at 125 DAT

the maximum number of primary branches were/.96, recorded in S4 (45 x

45cm) was statistically at par with S3 and S2. The minimum number

was 6.97 recorded with the treatment S-i.

The foliar sprays of micronutrients (B, Zn, Cu and Fe) at 0.5

per cent concentration also significantly influenced the number of primary

branches. The effect was significant at 50, 100 and 125 DAT. While, it

was found to be non significant at 25 and 75 DAT. Sprays of Zn at 0.5 per

cent gave the maximum number of primary branches (8.38) which was

significantly higher at 125 DAT, but were statistically at par with M-i and M3.

The minimum number of branches were 6.50 per plant, at the control

treatment MS.

It is evident from the table that the number of primary

branches were significantly maximum with the wider spacing S4 and the

micronutrient sprays M2. But the number of primary branches were not

influenced with by different treatment combinations of spacing and

micronutrients at all the stages, though the maximum number of primary

branches were 9.85 at 125 DAT with the combination of (S4M2) and

minimum (6.17) with of S-, M5.

4.1.4 Number of secondary branches per plant

The number of secondary branches were recorded

periodically from 50 to 125 days after transplanting (DAT) are presented in

Table 4.4 and depicted in Fig 4.5.

The number of secondary branches showed continuous

increase between 50 to 100 DAT increased with decreasing rate between

100 to 125 DAT. Result exhibited in the table revealed that there was

significant influence of spacing on number of secondary branches at 125

DAT, while there was no significant effect observed at 50 and 75 DAT. At

125 DAT the number of secondary branches per plant was 11.51,

observed significantly more in spacing treatment 84 (45 x 45 cm) which

was statistically at par with the spacing 83 (10.88 per plant) and S2

(10.53). The minimum number of secondary branches was 10.04 with

spacing 81 . •

The number of secondary branches were significantly

affected by the foliar sprays of different micronutrients (viz. B, Zn, Cu and

Fe) at 75 and 100 DAT. The influence of micronutrients at 100 and 125

DAT was found non-significant. The maximum number of secondary

branches (10.79 per plant) at 100 DAT was significant with spray of 0.5 per

cent Zn (M2), but was statistically at par with the sprays of Fe (M4 ) and B

(Mi). The minimum value was recorded 8.29 with treatment M5 (control).

At 125 DAT, the number of secondary branches were

maximum (11.85) with the spray of Zn (Ma) which was followed by the

Table 4.4 Effect of spacing and micronutrient sprays onnumber of secondary branches of chilli.

Number of secondary branches/olantTreatments 50 DAT 75 DATSpacing(S)81S2

S3

S4

SE(m) +CD at 5%Micronutrients(M)MiM2

M3

M4

M5

SE(m) +CD at 5%

4.334.644.805.15

-NS

4.515.164.784.934.28

-NS

6.806.937.017.44

-NS

7.047.906.247.426.200.320.90

100 DAT

8.689.399.53

10.540.391.07

9.6710.799.479.918.290.451.26

125 DAT

10.0410.5310.8811.510.411.15

10.9411.8510.5310.759.60

-NS

Treatment combination (S x M)S1M1

SiM2

STMSSiM4

3^5

S2MiS2M2

S2M3

S2M4

S2M5

S3MiS3M2

S3M3

S3M4

S3M5

S4MiS4M2

S4M3

S4M4

S4M5

Mean numberof secondarybranchesSE(m) +CD at 5%

3.744.744.274.824.104.355.085.564.353.874.935.144.555.014.385.015.674.755.554.78

4.73-

NS

7.207.655.617.186.406.767.486.777.356.277.547.756.617.555.576.688.737.557.616.61

7.04-

NS

8.3410.009.947.567.56

10.289.889.469.018.329.08

10.678.97

10.758.17

10.9712.649.51

10.479.11

9.53-

NS

10.1710.3210.2711.088.39

10.7411.8710.249.999.84

11.5111.2510.6010.9510.1011.3513.9711.0111.2410.00

10.74-

NSDAT - Days after transplanting . NS - Non significant

treatment M-i (B spray) with 10.94. The minimum number of secondary

branches were 9.60 noted with the spray of water (M5), though the effect

was found to be non significant.

The highest number of secondary branches per plant were

13.97 at 125 DAT with the treatment combination of S4M2, whereas, the

minimum was 8.39 with combination S-|M5. But the influence of different

treatment combination between spacing and micronutrients were non

significant at all the stages.

4.1.5 Number of leaves per plant

Data recorded on number of leaves per plant at 25, 50, 75,

100 and 125 DAT are presented in Table 4.5 and shown in Fig. 4.6.

It was observed that the number of leaves increased from

the first observation to the last observation (25 days to 125 DAT), but it

was interesting to note that the increase in number of leaves was found to

be at decreasing rate between 50 to 125 DAT.

The different spacing had marked effect on the number of

leaves which was found to be significant at 75, 100, 125 DAT. The effect

of spacing on number of leaves was not significant after 25 and 50 DAT.

The maximum number of leaves per plant were recorded 140.07, at 125

DAT in wider spacing S4 which was statistically at par with treatment S3

having 137.28 leaves. The minimum number of leaves were 130.92 found

in treatment S-i.

Table 4.5 Effect of spacing and micronutrient sprays onnumber of leaves per plant of chilli.

Number of leaves oerTreatmentsSpacing(S)81S2

S3

S4

SE(m) +CD at 5%

25 DAT

48.7048.5552.5654.47

-NS

50 DAT

79.9685.5385.8586.68

-NS

75 DAT

101.72103.97112.58112.97

2.928.36

plant100 DAT

120.64124.09125.32131.22

2.346.70

125 DAT

130.92133.90137.28140.07

2.106.00

Micronutrients(M)MTM2

M3

M4

M5

SE(m) +CD at 5%

44.6654.6952.3154.0049.69

-NS

Treatment combination (SSiMiSiM2

SWzSW4

S,M5

S2Mi

S2M2

S2M3

S2M4

S2M5

SsMTS3M2

S3M3

S3M4S3M5

S4MiS4M2

S4M3

S4M4

S4M5

Mean numberof leavesSE(m) +CD at 5%

44.5853.5449.5448.6147.2431.8155.4054.2453.2448.0450.2754.2251.2854.7852.2451.9755.6054.2059.3651.22

51.07-

NS

86.1190.9182.8686.2876.362.326.61

xM)81.4189.5771.4582.8874.4786.2899.6782.6184.4874.6184.3484.0788.2494.5278.0792.4190.3489.1583.2478.29

84.50-

NS

110.09115.02113.53101.3498.13

3.189.19

99.21111.68117.3687.5592.84

103.31110.96109.8397.0294.90

118.25116.69111.28111.27105.28119.61120.74115.63109.4199.49

107.81-

NS

132.39128.66126.90122.94115.68

2.627.49

128.85115.21126.25119.88113.00128.55129.44126.32121.05115.11126.04133.58130.46124.64111.86146.15136.40124.57126.21122.76

125.31-

NS

141.71141.50136.82132.34125.34

2.106.71

138.81128.50137.50130.07119.73138.58139.47134.98132.88124.40135.31151.91139.13134.94125.09154.14146.14135.67132.27132.14

135.54-

NS

DAT - Days after transplanting . NS - Non significant

Data recorded at 50, 75, 100 and 125 DAT for the number of

leaves per plant showed significant effect in different micronutrient sprays

separately. The maximum number of leaves at final observation (125

DAT) was 141.71 noted with spray of boron which was significant and

statistically at par with the treatment at M2 and M3 . The spray of water

(M5) had the minimum number of leaves recorded at all the stages of

observations.

Thus, seeing the number of leaves was found to be

significantly highest in the wider spacing of 45 x 45 cm (S4) and with the

micronutrient sprays in treatment MT.

The number of leaves were not affected significantly by

different treatment combinations of spacing and micronutrients at all the

stages. Though the maximum number of leaves were 154.14 at 125 DAT

with the combination of S4Mi and the minimum were119.73 with the

combination Si M5.

4.1.6 Leaf area per plant (cm2)

Data regarding leaf area has been presented in Table 4.6

and shown in Fig. 4.7.

There were significant differences in the leaf area due to

spacing. The maximum leaf area 2196 cm2 was statistically significant

noted in spacing S4, which was at par with the treatment S2 (2174 cm2).

The minimum leaf area was 1799 cm2 noted with treatment Si.

Table 4.6 Effect of spacing and micronutrient sprays onleaf area per plant and plant spread of chilli.

TreatmentsSpacing(S)81S2

S3

S4

SE(m) +CD at 5%Micronutrients(M)MTM2

M3

M4

M5

SE(m) +CD at 5%

Leaf area / plant (cm2)

179921742078219610.3329.57

22862551168621511635

11.5533.00

Plant spread (cm)

31.4736.3737.4536.89

0.742.12

35.1235.8936.4836.5033.72

-NS

Treatment combination (S x M)SiM-iSiM2

SiM3

SiM4

SiM5S2MiS2M2

S2M3

S2M4

S2M5

SsM!S3M2

S3M3

S3M4

S3M5

S4M!

S4M2

S4M3

S4M4

S4M5

SE(m) +CD at 5%

17202249159320201415262826691619238915672500259017061952164222962697182622861919

23.0966.13

31.5432.4131.3432.6429.4135.4736.9737.5736.9434.9036.6437.4439.3738.2735.5136.8536.7437.6438.1435.08

-NS

I Leaf area / plant (cm2) - Plant spread (cm

o

OJd>

(00)

3000

2500

2000

1500

1000

500

S2 S3

Spacing

S4 M1 M2 M3

Micronutrients

M4 M5

Treatments

Fig.4.7 Effect of spacing and micronutrient sprays onleaf area per plant and plant spread of chilli.

Under different micronutrient sprays, significantly more leaf

area per plant 2551 cm2 was recorded under treatment M2, which was

followed by MI (2286 cm2) and M4 (2151 cm2). On the other hand the

minimum leaf area per plant was 1635 cm2 noted in treatment M5.

The interaction between spacing and micronutrient sprays

were significant for leaf area per plant. The maximum leaf area was 2697

cm2, recorded with the combination of S4M2, which was statistically at par

by the treatment combination S2M2 (2669 cm2), but significantly different

with rest of the treatments viz. S2Mi and S3M2 (2628 and 2590 cm2,

respectively) were next at par in order. The minimum leaf area was 1415

cm2 noted with the treatment combination of Si MS .

4.1.7 Plant spread (cm)

The data on plant spread recorded at 125 days after

transplanting are presented in Table 4.6 and Fig.4.7.

The data shows that there was a significant difference in the

plant spread due to plant spacing. The maximum plant spread was 37.45

cm, recorded under treatment 83 with the wider spacing (30 x 60 cm),

which was statistically at par with the treatment S4 and S2 with 36.89 and

36.37 cm spread, respectively. The minimum plant spread was 31.47 cm

produced under closer spacing 30 x 30 cm (81).

In case of micronutrient sprays, data observed at 125 for the

plant spread DAT was non-significant. The, maximum plant spread was

Book NOAcc>N°

36.50 cm in M4 and minimum spread was 33.72 cm with spray of

water(M5 ).

The treatment combination SsMs gave the maximum plant

spread of 39.37 cm which was followed by combination S3M4. The lowest

plant spread was 29.41 cm recorded in S-|M5. But the interaction between

different spacing and micronutrient combination were found to be non-

significant.

4.2 Yield contributing characters

4.2.1 Days to first flowering

Days to first flowering showed significant differences with

various spacing and micronutrient sprays as given in Table 4.7 and

Fig. 4.8.

Plant having minimum area i.e. with the treatment 81, found

to gave earliest flowering in 50.93 days, which was statistically at par with

S2 and S3 (52.93 and 52.80, respectively) when compared with S4 . But

the plant in wider spacing under treatment S4 took maximum days

(55.60) for the first flowering.

From the data it is evident that there were significant

differences in the days to first flowering due to micronutrient sprays. Total

period from transplanting to first flowering was comparatively less (50.58

days) in treatment M2 which was at par with treatment M-, and M4 while M5

took comparatively more number of days (55.58). The days to first

Table 4.7 Effect of spacing and micronutrient sprays on days tofirst flowering and days to 50 per cent flowering of chilli.

Treatments

Spacing(S)81S2

S3

S4

SE(m) +CD at 5%Micronutrients(M)M1

M2

M3

M4

M5

SE(m) +CD at 5%

Days to first flowering(days)

50.9352.9352.8055.60

1.032.94

52.0050.5854.5852.5852.58

1.053.29

Days to 50 per centflowering (days)

69.8769.6068.8069.47

-NS

67.5065.1770.0069.8374.67

1.143.26

Treatment combination (S x M)S-\MiSiM2

S,M3

S,M4

SiM5

S2MtS2M2

S2M3

S2M4

S2M5

SsM!S3M2

S3M3

S3M4

S3M5

SMS4M2

S4M3

S4M4

S4M5

SE(m) +CD at 5%

51.3351.6750.3350.3351.0051.0048.0057.3351.3357.0051.0051.3357.0051.3353.3354.6751.3353.6757.3361.00

-NS

67.6766.3368.0070.6776.6771.6766.3369.3369.6774.3365.3365.0071.0068.6774.0065.3366.3371.6770.3373.67

-NS

NS - Non significant

I Days to first flowering (days) • Days to 50 per cent flowering (days)

S2 S3Spacing

M2 M3 M4

MicronutrientM5

Treatments

Fig.4.8 Effect of spacing and micronutrient sprays on daysto first flowering and 50 per cent flowering of chilli.

flowering were not affected significantly by interactions between spacing

and micronutrients.

4.2.2 Days to 50 per cent flowering

Observations on days to 50 per cent flowering as given in

Table 4.7 and presented in Fig. 4.8 shows that flowering was not affected

significantly by varying plant spacing and also their interaction with

micronutrients (S x M). However, spacing S3 (68.80 DAT) and treatment

combination SsM2 (65 DAT) required comparatively less time for 50 per

cent flowering.

From the data it is evident that there were significant

differences in the days to 50 per cent flowering due to micronutrient

sprays. Total period from transplanting to 50 per cent flowering were 65.17

days, comparatively less in treatment M2 which was at par with M-i while,

treatment M5 took comparatively more number of days (74.67 days) for 50

per cent flowering.

4.2.3. Per cent fruit set

The data in reference to per cent fruit set noted for all the

treatments are depicted in Table 4.8 and shown in Fig.4.9.

It was observed that per cent fruit set were not influenced

significantly by varying plant spacings, which ranged between 56.97 per

cent in S2 to 55.30 per cent in S4 . However, significant variation was

observed with different micronutrient sprays. The maximum fruit set was

60.68 per cent recorded under treatment M2, which was statistically at par

Table 4.8 Effect of spacing and micronutrient sprays on percentfruit set and number of fruits per plant of chilli.

Treatments

Spacing(S)81S2

S3

S4

SE(m) +CD at 5%Micronutrients(M)MiM2

M3

M4

M5

SE(m) +CD at 5%Treatment combinationSiM-,S^2

S-|M3

SiM4

SiM5S2M-\S2M2

S2M3

S2M4

S2M5

SzMiS3M2

S3M3

S3M4

S3M5

S4MiS4M2

S4MsS4M4

S4M5

SE(m) +CD at 5%

Fruit set(%)

56.6356.9755.7955.30

-NS

59.4760.6856.0553.6451.010.922.63

(SxM)63.8653.2962.3652.5451.1158.0064.5453.9856.0352.2961.3263.5551.9952.3849.7054.7061.3455.8853.6350.94

1.845.26

Number of fruitsper plant

53.2358.6856.1165.35

1.093.12

60.7164.1857.2055.8853.73

1.223.44

52.6056.9353.8056.6746.1360.0066.0053.5357.2056.6758.1056.0771.5347.8747.0072.1377.7357.6061.8057.472.446.88

NS - Non significant

with the spray of boron in treatments M-i and gave 59.47 per cent fruit set.

The lowest fruit set 51.01 per cent was recorded under control (Ms).

The interaction between spacing and micronutrients were

also found to be significant for this attribute. The maximum fruit set was

64.54 per cent recorded under treatment combination of S2 M2. This was

followed by 81 M-i, S3 M2 , Si M3, S4 M2 and S3M-i which were statistically

at par. The minimum fruit set per cent was 49.70 recorded in the

combination S3 M5.

4.2.4 Number of fruits per plant

Statistically analysed data is presented in Table 4.8 and

illustrated in Fig.4.10.

It is clearly visible from the data that there was a significant

difference on number of fruit per plant due to spacing. The maximum

number of fruit were 65.35 per plant harvested from the treatment S4,

which was followed by 58.68 fruits per plant harvested in the treatment

S2. The minimum number of fruits were 53.23 per plant harvested from

the treatment Si.

From the table it is evident that there was significant influence

on number of fruit per plant due to micronutrient sprays. The maximum

number fruit per plant were 64.18 harvested from the treatment M2 which

was significant and followed by treatment M-i M3 and M4 (60.71, 57.20 and

55.88, respectively). The minimum number of fruit was 53.73, harvested

from the treatment M5.

Spacing and micronutrient combination showed significant

differences for number of fruit per plant. The maximum number of fruit per

plant was 77.73, harvested from the treatment combination S4 M2 which

was statistically at par with the combinations S4Mi and S3M3 (72.13 and

71.53 per plant, respectively). The minimum number of fruits per plant

were 46.13 harvested from the combination of SiM5 which was significantly

inferior over all the treatments except Si MI, 83 M4 and

4.2.5 Pedicel length of fruit (cm)

The observations recorded for pediciel length of fruit under

different treatments are presented in Table 4.9.

It was observed that pedicel length of fruit was non-

significantly influenced due to spacing, though it ranged between 3.57 cm

to 3.65 cm. However, significant variation was observed with spray of

different micronutrients.

The maximum pedicel length of fruit was 3.78 cm, recorded

under treatment M4 which was statistically at par with M-i, M2 and M3

having the pedicel length of 3.74, 3.64 and 3.62 respectively. The

minimum pedicel length was 3.33 cm, recorded under treatment M5 .

Spacing and micronutrient interactions were found to give

significant variation in case of pedicel length. The maximum pedicel length

of fruit was 4.11 cm, recorded under treatment combination of S2 M4. But

the treatment combinations viz. SiM2, S4 M4, S3M3 ,S2M-i S3M-i and S4M-i

also showed statistically similar length of 4.03, 4.03, 3.94, 3.84, 3.78 and

Table 4.9 Effect of spacing and micronutrient sprays on pedicellength, length of fruit and girth of fruit of chilli.

Treatments Pedicel length(cm)

Spacing(S)SiS2

S3S4

SE(m) +CD at 5%Micronutrients(M)M1

M2

M3

M4

M5

SE(m) +CD at 5%Treatment combinationSMSiM2SiM2

8^4

B,M5

S2MiS2M2

S2M3

S2M4

S2M5

SslVhS3M2

S3M3

S3M4

S3MsS4MiS4M2

S4M3

S4M4

S4M5

SE(m) +CD at 5%

3.623.643.573.65

-NS

3.743.643.623.783.330.090.24

(SxM)3.564.033.573.563.373.843.493.464.113.293.783.443.943.423.293.773.583.514.033.390.170.49

Length offruit (cm)

6.016.146.036.11

-NS

6.216.416.036.185.540.140.39

•6.316.475.785.855.646.106.696.186.255.466.006.425.806.225.716.416.046.386.385.35

-NS

Girth offruit (cm)

3.223.283.253.31

-NS

3.333.353.173.463.050.080.22

3.223.353.233.233.083.263.363.153.573.163.263.513.043.612.863.573.183.263.413.10

-NS

NS - Non significant

3.77 cm, respectively, with the combination S2 M4 . The minimum pedicel

length was 3.29 cm recorded under combination of S3 M5 and S2 M5

both, but it was at par with the remaining combinations.

4.2.6 Length of fruit (cm)The data with reference to length of fruit

treatment are presented in Table 4.9.

from each

Different plant spacing studied under the present

investigation showed non significant effect on length of fruit and also in

their interactions i.e. between spacing and micronutrients (S x M).

Different micronutrient sprays studied under the present

investigation showed significant effect on length of fruit. The result

indicated that maximum length of fruit was 6.41 cm, recorded under

treatment M2, was at par with M-i (6.21 cm), M4 (6.18cm) and M3

(6.03 cm). The minimum length of fruit (5.56 cm) was recorded under

treatment M5, this was significantly inferior than all the other treatments.

4.2.7 Girth of fruit (cm)

The observation on girth of fruit in various treatments are

presented in Table 4.9.

It is revealed from the table that the girth of fruit was not

significantly affected by spacing which ranged between 3.22 cm in Si to

3.31cm in S4, whereas, there was significant influence on girth of fruit by

micronutrient sprays. Treatment M4 recorded 3.46 cm, girth of fruit, was

maximum but statistically at par with M2 and M-i (3.35 and 3.33 cm,

respectively). The minimum girth of fruit was 3.05 cm, observed under

treatment M5. The girth of fruit was not affected significantly by

interaction between spacing and micronutrient sprays.

4.2.8 Fresh weight of fruit (g)

The average fresh weight of 10 fruits are given in Table 4.10.

It is revealed from the table that the fresh weight of 10 fruits was non-

significantly affected by spacing. However, spacing 82, produced maximum

26.55 g fresh weight of 10 fruits which was statistically at par with S4

(24.20 g) and S3 (23.28 g). The minimum fresh weight 23.08 g, was

observed under 81 .

Micronutrient sprays had significant influence in case of fresh

weight of fruits. Spray of Zn in treatment IVb gave the maximum fresh

weight of 29.80 g which was statistically at par with in the treatment MI

27.41 g. It was followed by M4 which gave 23.47 g per 10 fresh fruit. The

minimum fresh weight was noticed in control (M5) with 19.54 g of 10 fruits.

The interaction between spacing and micronutrients were

found non significant for this attribute. However, the treatment

combinations S2M2 produced maximum fresh weight 35.57 g per ten fruits

in comparison to all other treatment combination.

4.2.9 Dry weight of fruits (g)

Data with reference to dry weight of ten fruits from each

treatment are presented in the Table 4.10.

Table 4.10 Effect of spacing and micronutrient sprays on freshweight and dry weight of per 10 fruits of chilli.

Treatments

Spacing(S)81S2

S3

S4

SE(m) +CD at 5%Micronutrients(M)MiM2

M3

M4

M5

SE(m) +CD at 5%Treatment combinationSMSiM2

SiM3

SiM4

SiM5

S2MiS2M2

S2M3

S2M4

S2M5

SsMTS3M2

S3M3

S3M4

S3M5

S4M-iS4M2

S4M3

S4M4

S4M5

SE(m) +CD at 5%

Fresh fruitweight(g)

23.0826.5523.2824.20

1.213.34

27.4129.8021.1823.4719.54

1.353.86

(SxM)27.4726.0020.3623.3318.2229.1435.5722.9024.7520.4027.3728.3719.2021.6119.8525.6529.2522.2524.1719.70

-NS

Dry fruitweight (g)

4.654.885.254.87

-NS

4.535.475.165.184.220.320.92

4.614.475.634.304.264.296.474.484.984.175.015.825.465.224.744.195.145.096.203.72

-NS

NS - Non significant

It was observed that dry weight of 10 fruits were not affected

significantly by varying plant spacings and also their interactions (S x M).

However, treatment S3 (5.25 g) and treatment combination S2M2 (6.47 g)

produced maximum dry weight of 10 fruit in comparison to other

treatments.

Different micronutrient sprays studied under the present

investigation showed significant effect on dry weight of fruit. The maximum

dry weight was 5.47 g per 10 fruit produced under M2, but was statistically

at par with weight of 5.18, 5.16 g in the treatments M4 and MS ,

respectively. Treatment M5 gave the minimum dry weight of 4.22 g per

10 fruits.

4.2.10 Number of seeds per fruit

The data regarding number of seed per fruit are given in

Table 4.11 and shown in Fig.4.11

It reveals from the data that the number of seeds per fruit

was significantly differed due to spacing. The maximum number of seeds

per fruit were counted and found to be 52.85 in treatment S2 which differ

significantly than rest of the treatments and followed by 83, S4, and Si

which were at par (49.21, 49.13 and 48.59 seeds per fruits respectively).

Number of seeds per fruit were influenced significantly in

case of micronutrient sprays. The maximum number of seeds were 53.31

per fruit counted from the treatment M2 (Zn spray), which was statistically

Table 4.11 Effect of spacing and micronutrient sprays on numberof seed per fruit, 1000 seed weight and germinationpercentage of chilli.

Treatments

Spacing(S)81S2

S3

S4

SE(m) +CD at 5%Micronutrients(M)MiM2

M3

M4

M5

SE(m) +CD at 5%

Number ofseed per fruit

48.5952.8549.2149.13

1.203.48

48.0853.3149.9751.8646.50

1.343.84

1000 seedweight(g)

4.885.484.985.100.160.44

4.975.785.005.334.460.180.52

Germinationpercentage

73.5375.8074.1376.73

0.722.06

76.5079.6773.6775.1770.25

0.811.62

Treatment combination (S x M)SiMiS-|M2

SiMi8^4

8^5

SalVhS2M2

S2M3

S2M4

S2M5

SsM!S3M2

S3M3

S3M4

S3M5

S4MT

S4M2S4M3

S4M4

S4M5

SE(m) +CD at 5%

49.5048.7348.7052.0044.0051.3365.0748.6750.7048.4748.1752.4749.1053.3043.0048.5046.9753.4051.4345.37

2.687.68

4.425.024.945.404.615.166.955.385.314.605.445.255.164.934.134.875.914.535.674.50

-NS

75.3376.0073.3374.6768.3378.0080.3374.0076.0070.6774.3377.3373.00

1 75.0071.0078.3385.0074.3375.0071.00

-NS

NS - Non significant

/ u

60

50

*; 40

'5̂_

| 30

TJ0)o> 5nw ^u

**"o« 10z

Q

II

In11

11

11

T- CO •»— CO IO CN t̂ C O l ^ > C N ^ t f - C O l Ow w 5 2 s s s 5 2 2 s s s 2 2

• " - T - S n C N C N C O C O T T ' J -c o c o S c o c o c o c o c o c o c o

Spacing MicronutrientsTreatments

Interaction

Fig.4.11 Effect of spacing and micronutrient sprays onnumber of seed per fruit of chilli.

S1 S2 S3

Spacing

S4 M1 M2 M3

Treatments Micronutrients

M4 M5

Fig.4.12 Effect of spacing and micronutrient sprays on1000 seed weight of chilli.

at par with the treatment M4 (51.86 per cent) fruit and M3 (49.97 per fruit).

The minimum seed count per fruit was recorded 46.50 in treatment M5 .

The interaction between spacing and micronutrients were

also significant for this attribute. The treatment combination S2M2 gave the

maximum number of (65.07) seed per fruit, which was followed by the

combination of S4M3, S3M4, S3 M2 , Si M4 , S4 M4 , S2M-i and S2M4 which

ranged between 53.40 to 5.70 and were statistically at par. The minimum

number of seeds per fruit were counted under combination of S3M5(43.00

seed per fruit).

4.2.11 1000 Seed weight (g)

The observation on 1000 seed weight in various treatments

presented in Table 4.11 and shown in Fig.4.12 reveals that the 1000 seed

weight was significantly influenced by spacing and foliar sprays of

micronutrients. In spacing treatments 1000 seed weight ranged between

4.88 g in 81 to 5.48 g in S2. Seed weight was significantly maximum and

at par in treatments S2 and S4 with weight of 5.48 and 5.10 g, respectively.

Micronutrients also affected significantly on 1000 seed weight. The

maximum weight of seed was 5.78 g obtained in treatment M2 which was

statistically at par with treatment M4. The weight seed was 4.46 g and 4.97

g recorded minimum in treatment MS and M-I. Interaction between both the

treatment (S x M) ranged between 4.13 g in S3 M5 to 6.95 g in S2 M2 .

4.2.12 Germination percentage

Germination per cent noted for al the treatments depicted in

Table 4.11 show that there was a significant difference on germination per

cent due to spacing. The treatment S4 recorded maximum 76.73 per cent

germination which statistically at par with treatment 82 (30 x 45 cm). The

minimum germination 73.53 and 74.13 per cent recorded in treatment 81

and S3, respectively, were at par.

Significant influence on germination per cent due to

micronutrient sprays was also noticed. The maximum germination was

79.67 per cent observed under treatment M2 which was followed by MI, M4

and M3 with 76.50, 75.17 and 73.67 per cent, respectively. Treatment M5

recorded the minimum germination per cent of 70.25. Spacing and

micronutrient interactions did not affect germination per cent significant in

different treatment combinations.

4.2.13 Dry yield quintal per hectare

Data recorded on dry yield in kg per plot was converted in

quintal per hectare for all the treatment is presented in Table 4.12 and

illustrated in Fig.4.13.

Different spacing treatments showed significant affect on dry

yield per hectare. The highest dry yield 24.33 q/ha was given by the

treatment 82 was statistically at par with 23.97q per hectare recorded in

Table 4.12 Effect of spacing and micronutrient sprays on dry yieldand seed yield quintal per hectare of chilli.

Treatments

Spacing(S)81S2

S3

S4

SE(m) +CD at 5%Micronutrients(M)M1

M2

M3

M4

M5

SE(m) +CD at 5%Treatment combinationSiMiSiM2

SiM3

S-\M4

SiM5

S2MiS2M2

S2M3

S2M4

S2M5

S3M1

S3M2

S3M3

S3M4

S3M5

S4MiS4M2

S4M3

S4M4

S4M5

SE(m) +CD at 5%

Dry yieldquintalper hectare

23.9724.3314.6315.700.190.55

20.2821.8919.8618.6017.650.220.62

(SxM)23.9126.6324.8522.3622.0825.3028.9422.9322.4921.9915.0715.8913.9415.0413.1916.8216.0917.7314.5113.340.441.24

Seed yieldquintalper hectare

7.077.164.424.340.070.20

6.156.395.635.904.680.080.22

7.227.677.367.465.677.598.576.966.965.754.874.564.155.063.504,944.784.054.123.820.160.45

NS - Non significant

Si. While, the lowest yield was 14.63 q per hectare, produced by

treatment S3.

Dry yield quintal per hectare was affected significantly by

different sprays of micronutrients. The treatment with Zn 0.5 per cent

spray (M2) produced maximum dry yield of 21.89 q / ha. It was followed by

the treatment M! (20.28 q/ha), M3 (19.86 q/ha) and M4 (18.60 q/ha) which

all differ statistically. Minimum dry yield 17.65 q/ha was recorded in

treatment M5. Interaction between spacing and micronutrients in case of

dry yield per hactare was affected significantly in treatment combination.

The maximum dry yield 28.94 q / h a was recorded in S2M2 followed by

SiM2, S2Mi and 8^3 (26.63, 25.30 and 24.82 q/ha, respectively) which

were all statistically different. Whereas, the lowest dry yield 13.19 q/ha

was recorded under combination of S3M5 which was at par with S2M3 and

S4M5.

4.2.14 Seed yield quintal per hectare

Observations recorded on seed yield quintal per hectare is

given in Table 4.12 and shown in Fig.4.14.

Significant influence of spacing on seed yield was found

maximum (7.16 q/ha) produced under treatment S2 which was statistically

at par with Si (7.07 q/ha). Where as, in wider spacing S4 the seed yield

obtained was (4.34 q/ha) lowest.

In case of micronutrient treatments, seed yield quintal per

hectare was significantly influenced. The highest seed yield 6.39 q/ha was

recorded in treatment of M2 i.e. with the spray of zinc, treatment M-, was

next in order and gave yield of 6.15 q/ha which was followed by spray of

Iron in M4 with 5.90 q/ha. The lowest seed yield of 4.68 q/ha was

produced under M5 (control).

Combined effect of spacing and micronutrient sprays were

also found to be significant for this attribute. The seed yield of 8.57 q/ha

was recorded maximum in treatment combination S2M2, Which was

followed by treatment combination of Silvb with 7.67 q/ha. Combinations

S2Mi, S-|M4 and SiM3 were next in sequence and at par with each other

gave seed yield of 7.59, 7.46 and 7.36 q/ha, respectively. The lowest seed

yield of 3.50 q/ha was noticed from the treatment combination S3 M5 which

was at par with 3.82 q/ha in S4 M5 .

4.3 Economics

Cost involvement and returns per hectare of different

treatment combinations between spacing and micronutrient sprays are

given in Table 4.13.

In this study investment refers to the cash expenses paid for

seed production of chilli whereas, returns devote the value of the product

calculated with help of its market value. It is revealed from the table that

the cost of seed production ranged form Rs. 73063.17 in case of S4 M5

(i.e. 45 x 45 cm spacing without micronutrient sprays) to Rs. 80296.00 in

case of Si M4 i.e. 30 x30 cm spacing with a combination of 0.5 per cent

Iron sprays.

Table 4.13 Economics of chilli seed production (Rs/ha)

Treatmentcombina-

tions

8^1

3^2

3^3

3^4

s,M5

S2Mi

S2M2

S2M3

S2M4

S2M5

SsMT

S3M2

S3M3

S3M4

S3M5

S.MTS4M2

S4M3

S4M4

S4M5

Totalcost(Rs.)

80276.00

80178.00

80084.00

80296.00

79836.00

77771.97

77673.97

77579.97

77791.97

77331.97

74720.45

74622.45

74528.45

74740.45

74280.45

73503.17

73405.17

73311.17

73523.17

73063.17

Seedyield

(q/ha)*

7.22

7.67

7.36

7.46

5.67

7.59

8.57

6.96

6.96

5.75

4.37

4.56

4.15

5.06

3.50

4.94

4.78

4.05

4.12

3.80

Chillipowder

(q/ha) * *

16.69

18.96

17.49

14.90

16.41

17.71

20.37

15.97

15.53

16.24

10.20

11.33

11.79

9.98

9.69

11.88

11.31

13.68

10.39

9.54

Grossreturn(Rs.)

249980.00

268020.00

255780.00

253600.00

202920.00

263120.00

297840.00

240740.00

239860.00

204980.00

166500.00

159460.00

144080.00

171760.00

124380.00

171960.00

166020.00

148860.00

144380.00

133080.00

Netreturn(Rs.)

169704.00

187842.00

175690.00

173304.00

123084.00

185348.03

220166.03

163160.03

162068.03

127648.03

91779.55

84837.55

69551.55

97019.55

50099.55

98456.83

92614.83

75548.83

70856.83

60016.83

Netbenefitcostratio

2.12

2.34

2.19

2.16

1.55

2.38

2.84

2.10

1.08

1.66

1.23

1.14

0.94

1.31

0.71

1.34

1.31

1.03

0.97

0.82

Note:

Seed price Rs. 300.00 per kg

Chilli powder price Rs. 20.00 per kg

The highest gross return of Rs. 297840.00 was found in S2

M2 (30 x 45 cm spacing with a combination of 0.5 per cent zinc sprays)

followed by ST M2 (Rs. 268020.00) whereas, the lowest (Rs. 133080.00) in

case of S4 M5 (45 x 45 cm spacing without micronutrient sprays and the

highest net profit was obtained in S2 M2 (Rs.220166.03) followed by S-, M2

(Rs. 187842.00). The highest benefit cost ratio was calculated in S2 M2

(2.84) followed by Si M2 (2.38). Thus, it can be concluded that the

treatment combination S2 M2 i.e. with spacing of 30 x 45 cm and sprays of

zinc @0.5 per cent proved to be the most beneficial for the seed

production of chilli.

Chapter- V

Discussion

Chilli is one of the important vegetable as well as spice

is being cultivated throughout India. It's fruit and seed yield is influenced

by several factors, among which spacing and micronutrients play major

role. No work has been reported so far on seed production of chilli in

Chhattisgarh region. Secondly, information on combined effect of spacing

and micronutrients particularly with reference to chilli seed production is

scanty. Work on production of green or dry chilli in relation to spacing is

available but on the other land, studies on micronutrients are very less.

Climate of Chhattisgarh is also quite suitable for cultivation of chilli. Thus,

the present investigation on "Effect of spacing and micronutrients on

seed production of chilli (Capsicum frutescens L.) under

Chhattisgarh region" was aimed to determine as and how spacing and

different micronutrient sprays affect the vegetative growth, seed yield and

seed quality of Chilli. The results obtained during the investigations are

discussed under various sub heads in this chapter.

5.1 Growth Characters

5.1.1 Plant height (cm)

Plant height recorded at 25, 50, 75, 100 and 125 DAT

showed that the rate of increase in height was more during the initial

growth period i.e. between 25-50 DAT. This may be due to the utilization

of nutrient uptake towards the vegetative growth. The height of plant was

found to increase with decreasing rate between 50 to 75 DAT may be due

to the diversion of nutrients towards development and growth of primary

and secondary branches and initiation of floral buds. But increase in

height again at increasing rate between 75 to 100 DAT may be due to

maximum development of primary and secondary branches along with

formation of more number of leaves resulting in more photosynthesis and

more nutrient uptake utilized in vegetative growth. Later, the slow growth

rate above 100 DAT was probably due to utilization and diversion of some

food material for the development of fruits against sole utilization for

vegetative growth.

The plant height was found to be higher in the closer spacing

30 x 30 cm (Si ) as compared with the wider spacing 45 x 45 cm. The

phenomenon of more height of plant in closer spacing in well known which

might be due to competition for light and space, also observed by Maya et

al. (1997). Secondly at high plant density, light penetration down the

canopy may be restricted resulting in elongation of internodes and

unfavourable for lateral growth of plant. Similar result were reported by

Boominathan et al. (1971) and Selvaraj et al. (1972) in chilli.

Effect of different micronutrients was clearly visible at 100

and 125 DAT. At initial development of the plant, the height was not

influenced by the micronutrient sprays may be due to availability of these

nutrients as analysed in soil (Table 3.2) might be sufficient for the initial

growth. At later stage boron and zinc sprays @ 0.5 per cent gave at par

and significantly taller plants, may be due to adequate availability of these

nutrients through foliar sprays resulted in better development, whereas, in

control these nutrient might have been exhausted at the initial development

and later diverted towards the development of fruits. Boron plays an

essential role in biosynthesis of auxin in the meristem of the plant and

essential for cell division (Brady, 1988). Zinc also promotes growth

harmones and plays major role in protein synthesis as reported by Brady,

(1988), might have affected plant height indirectly. The finding were also

supported by the work of Butnaru et al. (1971) and Husain et al. (1989) in

chilli and Hooda et al. (1984) in tomato.

5.1.2 Stem girth (cm)

Girth of stem was increased from 25 to 125 DAT. The rate

of increase in stem girth was more during 25-50 DAT may be due to

availability of more nutrients at initial stages in the soil and higher uptake

of these nutrients. Increase in stem girth at later stages was noted may

be the result of development of more number of leaves which might have

synthesized more food material and translocated towards the development

of stem. Such results were also observed by Kolhekar (1999), in Chilli.

Thickness of stem increased with corresponding decrease of

plant density. The stem girth was (4.07cm) significantly affected at closer

spacing of 30 x 30 cm. While, it was not affected at rest of the spacings.

The increased thickness of stem at wider spacing may be the result of

better availability of nutrients per unit area and less competition among the

plants for light. Similar result were reported by Viloria et al. (1997) in

capsicum.

Effect of micronutrients on stem girth was non-significant at

25 DAT due to no sprays of micronuttrients. The effect was significant at

50 to 125 DAT, may be the result of more number of leaves produced with

the spray of micronutrients resulted in more photosynthesis. The growth

was (4.64 cm) significantly maximum at 0.5 per cent zinc sprays this may

be due to rapid cell division and biosynthesis of plant harmone. Dod et al.

(1989) and Ingle (1993) also found maximum stem diameter with the

spray of zinc in chilli.

5.1.3 Primary and secondary branches

Primary branches increased were with increasing rate up to

75 DAT but later it decreased between 75 to 100 DAT. The increase in

number was more at initial stages may be due to availability of more

nutrient and their diversion towards the initiation and development of

primary branches. The increase in decreasing rate between 75 to 100

DAT may be due to the formation of secondary branches and floral bud

initiation, but it was again increased with increasing rate at later stage. The

reason behind this is that due to complete development of secondary

branches, increase in plant height and development of more foliage the,

the nutrient might have diverted again towards development of more

number of primary branches.

Number of primary branches was recorded (6.97) less in

closer spacing of 30 x 30 cm may be due to competition among the plants

for availability of plant nutrients, space, water and better sunlight resulting

in less lateral growth and ultimately increase in plant height. These results

are in conformity with Sharma and Peshin (1994), Viloria et al. (1997) and

Maya et al. (1997). The effect of spacing was found to be non significant

at initial stage i.e. 25 DAT. This may be the results of time taken for the

establishment of plant after transplanting and initial growth. But atlOO DAT

non-significant differences may be the results of late initiation of more

number of branches in closer spacing. Thus, it seems that the

development of primary branches were more at 50, 75 and 125 DAT,

which were affected by different spacings.

Spray of zinc (M2) gave maximum number of branches

(8.38), but was at par with Boron (Mi) and Cu (M3) sprays at 125 DAT.

The effect of zinc, copper and boron at early stages in the establishment of

plant and growth might have resulted more number of primary branches in

chilli which was supported by Dangare (1997), Husain et al. (1989) in chilli

and Ravichandran et a/.(1995) in brinjal. The effect at 75 DAT on primary

branches was non significant. This might have resulted due to the

diversion of plant harmone and other physiological activities generated by

micronutrients towards the initiation and development of secondary

branches and floral buds, whereas, at 25 DAT the primary branches might

have not initiated.

In case of secondary branches, spacing showed significant

influence at 100 and 125 DAT, may be the result of full development of

secondary branches, competing for space, light and nutrients in closer

spacing and also development of less primary branches. At 50 and 75

DAT there may be comparative by less growth of plant resulting in non

significant effects. On the other hand micronutrient might have played

major role in the initiation and development of secondary branches at 75

and 100 DAT giving significant differences. The increase in secondary

branches with the spray of Zn, Fe and B was also in agreement with

Dangare (1997) and Husain et a/.(1989) in chilli and Bose and Tripathi,

(1986), in tomato.

5.1.4 Number of leaves per plant

Increase in number of leaves was found significant at 75, 100

and 125 DAT in case of spacing. At 25 and 50 DAT the leaves were not

affected by the planting density, as at 25 DAT the primary branches were

at initial stages resulted less difference in the number of leaves and up to

50 DAT, there was less competition between the plants. Spacing above 75

DAT were significant and affected development of more number of leaves.

Less availability of space, light and nutrients in closer spacing might have

resulted in less number of leaves at 75, 100 and 125 DAT, there by giving

significant differences.

Spacing also affected the number of leaves in chilli. The

leaves were recorded more in number (140.07 and 137.28) at wider

spacing i.e. S4 (45 x 45 cm) and S3 (30 x 60 cm) respectively, as

compared to the closer spacing 30 x 30 cm (130.92) and 30 x 45 cm

(133.90). These observations are in concurrence with the finding of Ally a.

and Yusuf (1991) and Viloria et al. (1997). This might be because of lesser

photosynthesis due to greater competition among higher number of plants

per unit area against less plants occupied in wider spacing resulting in less

number of leaves.

Micronutrient sprays also affects the number of leaves

significantly at all the stages after spray. Before 25 DAT the spray of

micronutrients were not made resulting in non significant effect.

Micronutrient B, Zn and Cu showed at par results at all the stages of

development with 141.71, 141.50 and 136.82 number, respectively,

indicates their involvement in the growth activity of the plants. The Zn

promotes growth hormones, copper had role in photosynthesis and

respiration and boron helps in synthesis of nucleic acids and plant

hormones essential for cell division and development affecting water

absorption and root growth as mentioned by Brady (1988). The significant

response of micronutrients foliar application towards vegetative growth has

also been recorded by earlier research workers in various vegetables

including chilli (Ranotkar, 1981; Dangare, 1983; Hooda et al. 1984 and

Ravichandran ef a/. 1995).

Micronutrient and spacing both had independent effects were

not affected in their interactions.

5.1.5 Leaf area per plant (cm )

Leaf area per plant was found to be significantly affected by

spacing and micronutrient sprays. Leaf area was recorded more

(2196 cm2) in wider spacing as compared with the closer spacing 30 x 30

cm (1799 cm2). In closer planting greater competition for space and

nutrient uptake from the soil in plant might have given less branches, less

number of leaves and smaller leaves ultimately affecting the total leaf

area of plant. Moisenboker (1996) in chilli and Pandey et al. (1996) in

tomato also found more leaf area in wider spacing. Among wider spacing

total leaf area in 84 (45 x 45 cm) was highest (2196 cm2) but leaf area of

82 (30 x 45 cm) was (2174 cm2) at par even in the presence of

comparatively less number of leaves, which may be due to slightly bigger

size of individual leaf development in 82 might be the effect be due to

congenial microclimate.

Different micronutrient sprays also affected leaf area per

plant. Spray of zinc gave significantly maximum leaf area (2551 cm2)

which was followed by B and Fe sprays. The soil of Chhattisgarh are

deficient in zinc thus the role of zinc in the formation of growth harmones,

protein synthesis etc., may be the reason for increase in leaf area. Boron

also helps in synthesis of plant harmons and is essential for cell division

and development and iron has important role in chlorophyll formation

(Brady, 1988), may be the cause for increase in leaf area than rest of the

treatments.

Interaction between spacing and mincronutrient was

observed maximum in combination S4M2 (2697 cm2) and S2M2 (2669 cm2)

indicating that microclimate in spacing 45 x 45 and 30 x 45 cm with the

spray of zinc might have helped to increased the leaf area.

5.1.6 Plant spread (cm)

Favourable growing conditions like more space available for

growth of root and shoots may be cause for more plant spread (37.45 cm)

in wider spaced plants. Higher uptake of nutrients and water from the soil

may be due to increase in number of roots in wider spacing resulted in

more plant spread. Similarly, more amount of sunshine available in wider

spacing leads to increased photsynthesis and there by growth of plant.

Cumulative effect of formation of more primary, and secondary branches,

more number of leaves, increase in leaf area and stem girth and decrease

in plant height in wider spacing resulted in more plant spread. Similar

findings were reported by Shrama and Peshin (1994), Viloria et al. (1997)

in chilli. Plant spread was not significantly influenced by micronutrient

sprays and interactions between spacing and micronutrients.

5.2 Flowering and fruiting character

5.2.1 Days first flowering and 50 per cent flowering

Days to first flowering was affected by different spacing but

days to 50 per cent flowering showed non-significant effects. First flowering

was earlier (50.93 DAT), in closer spacing, whereas, it was late (55.60

DAT) in with the decrease in plant density. Availability of more nutrition

from the soil and less competition for space and light in wider spacing

might have resulted in diversion of plant nutrient and photosynthets

towards the development of vegetative growth and primary and secondary

branches, thus giving late flowering in S4 . In case of 50 per cent flowering

the non-significant difference may be due to initiation and development of

more flower buds with the results of development of more primary and

secondary branches in wider spacing by that time. The results are in

agreement with the findings of Pandey et al. (1996), in tomato and

Shrivastava (1996), in capsicum.

Non-significant interactions between spacing and

micronutrient in case of both days to first and 50 per cent flowering

indicates that spacing and micronutrients might have independent effect

thus may not be influencing each other for both the above characters.

Micronutrient spray particularly zinc, boron and Iron found to give early first

flowering and also took leass duration form days to 50 per cent flowering.

This may be due to the active role of micronutrients in the development of

plant and physiological activities ultimately favouring early flowering. The

present results are in accordance with Aliev (1968) and Bose and Tripathi

(1996) in tomato.

5.2.2 Per cent fruit set and number of fruit per plant

Number of fruits per plant were affected by different spacing.

It was more (65.35) in wider spacing in 45 x 45 cm as compared with the

closer one (53.23). This may be the result of getting more opportunity to

the plants for uptake of soil nutrients in wider spacing, resulting in more

number of fruits. Lower plant height with increase in spread of plant and

more number of branches in wider spacing,also helped in more fruiting.

These results are in concurrence with the findings of Gowde et al. (1990),

Leskovar et al. (1992) and Ravanappa et al. (1997a) in capsicum.

Different spacing had not affected the per cent fruit set. This

might be due to the fact that the growing environmental conditions were

same for all the treatments. While Shrivastava ( 1996) concluded that per

cent fruit set was decreased with increase in spacing. Per cent fruit set

was significantly affected by the micronutrient sprays also. Zinc and boron

sprays showed increased in percentage of fruit set (60.68 and 59.47

respectively), over other treatment. Effect of micronutrient was also seen

in number of fruit per plant, which was recorded more (64.18) in spray of

Zn. Other micronutrients also showed significant effect over water sprays.

This clearly indicated the role of zinc and boron in setting of fruit. The

role of different micronutrients in fruit setting was also supported by the

experimental findings of Rajamani et al. (1990) in Chilli, Bose and Triapthi

(1996) in tomato for fruit setting, while, Arora et al. (1983) and Hooda et

al. (1984) in tomato and Husuain et al. (1989) in chilli for the role of

micronutrients in more number of fruit per plant.

Interaction between spacing and micronutrients were

significant in case of per cent fruit set but has no effect in number of fruit

per plant. Spacing alone showed non-significant differences in fruit set but

due to significant effect of micronutrient Zn and boron fruit set might have

resulted in significant interaction.

5.2.3 Pedicel length, fruit length and girth of fruit (cm)

Length of pedicel, fruit length and girth of fruit was not

affected by different spacings in the present study. It seems that these

characters are not influenced by the closer or wider spacing taken in the

experiment. Similar observation were noted by Singh and Tripathi (1994)

in french been.

All these above mentioned characters showed significant

differences due to micronutrient sprays with control but were statistically at

par with each other indicates the role of micronutrients in increased length

of pedicel, length of fruit and girth which may be the result of stimulated

growth due to the involvement of micronutrient in the increase of

photosynthesis and translocation of food material toward the development

of fruit. Ranotkar (1981) and Ingle et al. (1993), observed increase in fruit

size due to sprays of zinc in chilli. Similarly Husain et al. (1989) also

reported increase in fruit length and girth of chilli due to zinc, boron and

iron sprays.

Effect of spacing and micronutrient interaction were non-

significant for fruit length and girth, while. Pedicel length had significant

effect due to interaction. Spacing individually had not effected the pedicel

length but wider spacing with micronutrients seems to give significant

interactions.

5.2.4 Fresh and dry weight per 10 fruits (g)

Fresh weight per 10 fruits was affected by the different

spacings. Closer spacing in Si (30 x 30 cm) recorded less weight of fruit

(23.08g), where as the weight was more with the decrease in the plant

population. Though, S2 (30 x 45 cm) recorded maximum fruit weight

(26.55 g) but it was at par with S3 and S4 . Increase in weight of fruits in

wider spacing may be due to development of Stouter plants having greater

space to grow and were able to exploit better the available soil and light

resources resulting in more photosynthesis and translocation towards fruit.

On the other hand dry weight was non-significantly by affected. These

studies are in line with Leskovar et al. 1992 and Arteaga et al. (1999) in

chilli.

Significant effect of micronutrients on fresh as well as dry

weight was observed in chilli. Spray of zinc gave maximum fresh and

dry weight of fruits (29.80 and 5.47g), respectively. The effect of boron

on fresh weight was also recorded, which iron and copper helped to

increase dry weight of fruits. Involvement of micronutrient in plant

physiological activities might have resulted in more weight of fruits. The

role of different micronutrients viz. zinc is involved in reproduction process,

copper in photosynthesis and respiration and in utilization of iron, boron in

water absorption and translocation and iron in chlorophyll formation (Brady,

1988) supports the present investigation. Similar result as reported by

Albegov and Ratskerich (1972), Fekete (1974), Suryanarana et a/.(1985)

and Kumbhar and Deshmukh (1993) in vegetables due to micronutrients

are also in support of the present findings.

5.2.5 Number of seed per fruit, 1000 seed weight (g) and germinationpercentage

Significant influence of spacing was found in case of number

of seed per fruit, 1000 seed weight and germination percentage. Among

wider spacing, 30 x 45 cm spacing seems to be optimum gave 52.85

number seed per fruit, 5.48 g,1000 seed weight and 75.80 germination

percentage and , might have favoured the development of microclimate for

more nutrient uptake from the soil and phtotosynth«sis, being diverted

towards formation of more and healthy seeds including higher seed

germiantion. Revanappa ef a/. (1997a) recorded increase in number of

chilli seeds per fruit, whereas, Sharma and Peshin (1994) found more

germination and 1000 seed weight in sweet pepper with wider spacing.

Effect of micronutrient sprays were significant for all the

above mentioned characters. Maximum influence of zinc was found for

more number of seed per fruit (53.31), increase in 1000 seed weight (5.78

g) and germination percentage (79.67). Role of micronutrients is clearly

mentioned for increase in number and development of seeds. Zinc was

reported by Brady (1988) to promote seed maturation and production,

while iron had indirect effect through major role in chlorophyll formation.

Husain (1989), Deshmukh (1993) and Ingle ef a/. (1993) in chilli also

reported increase in 1000 seed weight and more number of seed per fruit.

Sharma (1995) found increase in the germination with boron sprays. Thus,

the experimental findings are in conformity with the work of scientists as

mentioned above.

The combined effect of spacing and micronutrients was non-

significant for 1000 seed weight and germination percentage, but on the

other hand interaction for the number of seed showed significant effects.

Wider spacing and micronutrients individually had positive role in the

growth and development of plant thus their cumulative effect might have

helped to increase the number of seed per fruit.

5.2.6 Dry yield and seed yield of chilli (q/ha)

Dry yield and seed yield (q/ha) was found to give significant

differences in various spacings. Both the yield were quite higher in closer

spacing than the wider one, yield in 30 x 30 and 30 x 45 cm were 23.97

and 24.33 q/ha, respectively higher and at par than S3 and S4 . This

indicates that more plant population per unit area with optimum spacing

played major role in increase of dry or seed yield against the decreased

number of plant per unit area yield in 82 was higher but at part with Si.

This may be due to availability of providing better condition for growth and

development giving more leaf area, more primary and

secondary branches and plant spread provided by spacing 30 x 45 cm,

resulting in more yield even q/ha with comparatively less number of

plants than in 30 x 30 cm. Thus any deviation from the optimum

conditions causes reduction in yield. It seems that plant at closer or

optimum spacing must have absorbed the soil nutrients in greater quantity

and utilized then in fruit production. These result are in agreement with

Singh (1973), Gulshan and Lai (1992), Sharma and Peshin (1994) and

Sontakke et al. (1995), reported highest red chilli and also seed yield in

spacing 30 x 45 cm. Jankulovski (1994) also found maximum seed yield

in closer spacing in chilli.

Spray of different micronutrients helped to increase the yield

of chilli in present investigation. The dry as well as seed yield was higher

than the control. The possible reason for getting more yield with the

micronutrient sprays may be due to their active role in providing the

balanced nutrition to the crop at all the stages of development which had

resulted in healthy plants more resistant to attack of various disease and

insect pests. The role of micronutrients in development of plant, fruit and

yield is also mentioned by Brady (1988). In the present studies zinc sprays

had maximum dry and seed yield (21.89 and 6.39 q/ha, respectively).

Brady (1988), also described the role of Zn in promotion of seed maturity

and production and also promotes growth harmone and starch formation,

may be reason for maximum yield. These experimental findings are also

supported by the studies of Singh et al. (1989), Husain et al. (1989), Ingle

et al. (1993) and Kaminvar and Rajagopal (1993) in chilli for dry and seed

yield.

Interactions between spacing and micronutrient showed

significant differences for dry and seed yield of chilli. Closer spacing with

micronutrient Zn spray interaction found to give maximum dry (28.94 q/ha)

(8.57 q/ha) and seed yield over their individual yield indicating significance

of both the treatments. The findings are in agreement with the studies

made by Singh et a/. (1989), found highest seed with yield the

combination of closer spacing and application of zinc.

5.3 Economics of seed production of chilli

The economic analysis of the present study indicated that

the highest cost of seed production was found in Si MA whereas,

maximum gross return was obtained with S2 M2 .

Although, the S2 M2 yielded highest amount of seed and

also it has proved economical because the highest net profit was gained

in S2 M2 ( 30 x 45 cm) spacing with combination of 0.5 per cent zinc

sprays.

The treatment combination S2 M2 (30 x 45 cm) spacing with

a combination of 0.5 per cent zinc sprays proved to be the most

economical followed by S2 M-i (30 x 45 cm) spacing with a combination of

0.5 per cent boron sprays. In these cases higher net benefit cost ratio

was found 2.84 and 2.38, respectively. Similar result also have reported

by Gulshan and Lai (1992) and Revanappa ef a/. (1997b).

Chapter-VI

SUMMARY, COMCLUSIONS AND SUGGESTIOMS

FOR FUTURE WORK

SUMMARY

The present investigation entitled "Effect of spacing and

micronutrients on seed production of chilli (Capsicum frutescens L.)

under Chhattisgarh region" was conducted at Horticultural Research

Farm, College of Agriculture, Indira Gandhi Agricultural University Raipur

(M.P.), during the year 1999-2000 in rabi season.

The different spacing treatments adopted were 30 x 30 cm

(Si), 30 x 45 cm (S2), 30 x 60 cm (S3) and 45 x 45 cm (S4). Whereas, the

different micronutrient treatments comprised of 0.5 per cent spray of boron,

zinc, copper and iron along with water spray as control.

Thus, there were twenty treatment combinations, which were

replicated thrice and the experiment was laid out in factorial randomized

block design.

During the course of study growth observations recorded were

plant height, stem girth, number of primary and secondary branches,

number of leaves, plant spread and leaf area per plant. In respect of

flowering and yield, observations on days to first and 50 per cent flowering,

per cent fruit set, number of fruit per plant, number of seed per fruit, 1000

seed weight, fresh and dry weight of 10 fruits, pedicel length, girth of fruit

and length of fruit were recorded and dry yield and seed yield per hectare

were calculated based on per plot yield.

The results of the investigation are summarized as follows :

1. The peak period of growth in terms of plant height was recorded

between 25 to 50 days after transplanting. Treatment spacing Si (30

x 30cm) and M-i (@0.5 per cent foliar spray of zinc) gave significantly

taller plants which was statistically at par with S2 and M2, respectively.

Whereas, it was not affected by the interactions between different

spacing and micronutrient combinations.

2. Maximum stem girth was found under wider spacing S3 (30 x 60 cm)

and micronutrient sprays M2 (Boron @ 0.5 per cent foliar spray).

Though, the stem girth was statistically at par with spacing S4 and

52 while in case micronutrient it was followed by M-i and M4 . The

interactions between spacing and micronutrients were significantly

differed and the maximum stem girth was recorded in combination of

53 M2 which was at par with S3 M4 and S2 M2.

3. The treatments with wider spacing i.e. S4, S3 and S2 and

micronutrient sprays M2, M-i and M3 gave statistically at par and more

number of primary and secondary branches per plant.

4. More number of leaves per plant were found under wider spacing S4

(45 x 45 cm) which was statistically at par with S3 and in case of

micronutrients sprays Mi,M2 and M3 gave statistically similar results,

but their interactions (S x M) had no effect on this trait.

5. Higher leaf area per plant was recorded under wider spacing S4 (45 x

45 cm) S2 (30 x 45 cm) also with micronutrient sprays M2 (zinc 0.5

per cent spray). Their interaction between S4 and M2 also gave

significantly higher leaf area per plant.

6. Higher spread of plant was recorded under wider spacing S3 (30 x

60 cm) which was statistically at par with S4 and S2 and with

micronutrient sprays of iron 0.5 per cent spray in M4. The plant

spread was not affected by their treatment combination (S x M).

7. The days to first flowering took less in spacing 81 (30 x 60 cm), S2

and S3 and with micronutrient sprays of zinc in M2, MI and M4

were at par. The days to 50 per cent flowering was affected by

micronutrient sprays and zinc resulted in early 50 per cent flowering

which was statistically at par with M-i but their iteration had no

significant effects.

8. Percent fruit set was not affected by treatment of spacing, but

significantly influenced by micronutrients and their interactions. The

maximum per cent fruit set was recorded in M2 (zinc 0.5 per cent

sprays) which was statistically at par with MI (Boron 0.5 per cent

sprays) and their treatment combination S2 M2 .

9. Number of fruits per plant were maximum under wider spacing S4 (45

x 45 cm) which was followed by S2 and with micronutrient sprays of

0.5 per cent zinc in M2 . The interaction between the treatment S4 M2

gave the maximum number of fruit per plant, but it was statistically at

par in 84 MI and 83 MS .

10. Except pedicel length, length of fruit and girth of fruit were neither

affected by treatment of spacing nor by their interaction (S x M). The

micronutrient sprays M4 gave maximum pedicel length. The length

of fruit was recorded maximum in M-i, while the girth of fruit in

treatment M4 .

11. Maximum weight of fresh fruit was recorded under spacing 82 which

was similar with S4 and S3 and in micronutrient sprays, M2 was at

par with M-I. The weight of dry fruit was recorded more with

micronutrients spray of M2, M4 and M3 , but the effect was non-

significant under different spacing as well as their interactions.

12. The treatment of spacing S2 ( 30 x 45 cm) and micronutrient sprays

M2 (@0.5 per cent zinc sprays) as well as their interaction (S2 M2 )

gave the maximum number of seed per fruit, whereas, in case of

micronutrients, the treatment M4 and M3 were also at par with M2 .

13. The quality attributes i.e. 1000 seed weight and germination

percentage were not affected significantly with the interactions

between spacing and micronutrient. But maximum 1000 seed weight

was recorded in spacing S2 (30 x 45 cm) and micronutrients spray M2

32-

(0.5 per cent zinc spray). The treatment of wider spacing S4 (45 x 45

cm) and micronutrient sprays M2 gave significantly higher

germination percentage of seed.

14. The higher dry yield per hectare was obtained in the treatment S2

which was statistically at par with St. In case of micronutrient sprays,

M2 (@0.5 per cent zinc spray) gave higher dry yield per hectare. But

the interaction between S2 and M2 gave highest dry yield with 28.94

q/ha.

15. The treatment spacing S2 (30 x 45 cm) and micronutrient sprays M2

(@0.5 per cent zinc sprays) as well as their interaction S2 M2 gave

the maximum seed yield individually with 7.16, 6.39 and 8.57 q/ha,

respectively.

16. Economic studies were also made and highest net profit was

obtained with the interaction combination of S2M2 (Rs 220166.03/ha)

which was followed by 81 M2 (Rs. 187842.00/ha).

CONCLUSIONS

On the basis of results obtained from the present

investigation, it may be concluded that for obtaining higher dry and seed

yield with comparatively better seed quality. The spray of zinc @ 0.5 per

cent was found suitable and in case of planting distance the maximum yield

was obtained in spacing S2 (30 x 45 cm) which was statistically as par with

81 (30 x 30 cm). But looking to the interactions, the treatment combination

S2 M2 i.e. with spray of zinc 0.5 per cent and at planting distance of 30 x 45

cm gave highest yield and from economic point of view also treatment

combination S2 M2 gave highest returns. Therefore, it is suggested that

the planting distance of 30 x 45 cm with the spray of 0.5 per cent zinc is

best for seed production of chilli.

SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE WORK

Based on the results obtained and the experiences gained

from the present study, some suggestions for the future work are given as

below :

1. The experiment may be repeated for the confirm .of the results.

2. The effect of other factors by which chilli seed production is

influenced like temperature, planting time, fertilizer application,

disease and insects, intercultural and irrigation should also be

studied.

3. Studies should also be made to see the effect of different

concentrations of micronutrient along with plant growth regulators on

seed production of chilli.

4. Some studies can be carried out in different varieties of chilli to see

the effect and for standarization of micronutrient and plant spacing.

5. The experiment may be carried out in other seasons on different soil

type and locations, in the region to see the effect of varying locations

and weather conditions.

6. Studies on fertilzer requirement particularly for seed production in

their region should be carried out in combination with different

micronutrient and spacing.

£15

EFFECT OF SPACING AND MICRONUTRIENTS ON SEED

PRODUCTION OF CHILLI (Capsicum frutescens L.) UNDER

CHHATTISGARH REGION

ByMANOJ KUMAR SAHU

ABSTRACT

The present investigation was carried out at Horticulture Research

Farm, Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur (M.P.) during the year 1999-

2000 in rabi season, in Factorial Randomized Block Design with three

replications.

The result indicated that various characters namely plant height,

stem girth, number of branches, leaf area per plant, days to first flowering,

number of fruit per plant, fresh weight of fruit, number of seed, 1000 seed

weight, germination percentage, dry as well as seed yield were significantly

influenced by different spacing and micronutrient sprays. The spacing

treatment had no effect on days to 50 per cent flowering, per cent fruit set,

pedicel length, length and girth of fruit and dry weight while all these traits were

significantly influenced by different micronutrient sprays. The plant height was

observed more in closer spacing while the number of branches, number of

leaves and leaf area per plant were more with the wider and optimum spacing

of 45x45 cm or 30x45 cm.

Inspite of maximum number of fruit per plant in 45 x 45 cm spacing

and with sprays of zinc @ 0.5 per cent the seed as well as dry yield per

hectare were more with the closer plant spacing of 30 x 45 cm and 30 x 30 cm

with the sprays of zinc @ 0.5 per cent. Looking to the interaction, the treatment

combination 82 M2 i.e. with spray of zinc @ 0.5 per cent and planting distance of

30 x 45 cm gave highest yield and from economic point of view also treatment

combination 82 IVb gave highest returns. Therefore, it is suggested that the

planting distance of 30 x 45 cm with the spray of 0.5 per cent zinc is best for

seed production of chilli

Department of Horticulture

College of Agriculture

IGAU, Raipur (M.P.)

( VIJAY MAHAJAN)

Chairman

Advisory Committee

Chapter- II

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103

Appendix - 1 : Cost of cultivation of chilli seed production

s.No.1. Land

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Particulars

Preparation

Ploughing

Harrowing

Rotavator

Levelling/Pata

Preparation of fieldnursery bed

II. Labour charges :

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Preparation of nurserybed

Nursery operation likesowing, covering ofseed, irrigation, hoeingand spraying offungicide

Preparation of plotsbunds line andirrigations channel

Transplanting81S2

S3

S4

Irrigation

Plant protection

Spreading of FYMand basal applicationof fertilizer

Inputs

1 Tractorfor 6 hrs

for 4 hrs

for 4 hrs

for 2 hrs

for 1 hrs

Number of labours

8

*

10

35

90806050 i:

16

20

20

Rate(Rs.)

200.00 hr"1

200.00 hr"1

200.00 hr"1

200.00 hr"1

200.00 hr"1

60 day 1

60 day1 '

60 day"1

60 day"1

60 day"1

60 day"1

60 day1

60 day"1

60 day"1

60 day"1

Total cost(Rs./ha)

1200.00

800.00

800.00

400.00

200.00

480.00

600.00

2100.00

5400.004800.003600.003000.00

960.00

1200.00

1200.00

S. ParticularsNo.

8. Application of fertilizeras top dressing

9. Spray of micronutrients

10. Weeding and intercuture(3 time)S!

S2

S3

S4

11. Harvesting(each of 3 picking)S!

S2

S3

S4

12. Threshing, cleaningand winnowing

13. Packing, selling price

III. Cost of Inputs

1 . Cost of FYM

2. Cost of seedlingsS!

S2

S3

S4

3. Irrigation charge

4. Cost of pesticides

Sulfex

Monocrotophos

Inputs

8

8

50708590

120110

9590

70

10 trollies per ha

111 111. 10 seedlings

74074.07 seedlings

55555.55 seedlings

49382.70 seedlings

7 irrigation

1.25 kg/ha

1 .5 litre/ha

Rate(Rs.)

60 day1

60 day1

60 day'1

60 day'1

60 day1

60 day'1

60 day'1

60 day1

60 day'1

60 day'1

60 day"1

Rs. 600 per

10 of 100seedlings

10 of 100seedlings

10 of 100seedlings

10 of 100seedlings

450 perirrigation

90 Rs/ kg

125RS/500

Total cost(Rs./ha)

480.00

480.00

9000.0012600.00 •

15300.0016200.00

21600.0019800.0017100.0016200.00

6300.00

2000.00

trolly 6000.00

11111.10

7407.07

5555.55

4938.27

3150.00

112.50

ml 312.50

110

s.No.

IV.

V.

Particulars

5. Cost of fertilizersN (urea) 100 kg ha"1

P (ssp) 50 kg ha"1

K (MOP) 50 kg ha"1

BoraxZinc sulphateCopper sulphateFerrous sulphate

Fixed costLand RentLand revenue & taxes

Miscellaneous

Inputs

@4.20 Rs./ kg@2.84 Rs./ kg@4.50 Rs./ kg2 kg ha"1

1.8 kg ha"1

2 kg ha"1

2 kg ha"1

Rs 4500 per haRs 12.50 ha"1

Rate(Rs.)

220 per kg190 per kg124 per kg230 per kg

Total cost(Rs./ha)

911.40887.50373.50440.00342.00248.00460.00

4500.0012.50

2000.00

J/2- .

Appendix - II Cost of cultivation for different treatmentcombinations in chilli seed production

Treatmentcombina-

tions

S^Mi

3,1^2

S,M3

3^4

5^5

SzM,S2M2

S2M3

S2M4

S2M5

S3M,

S3M2

S3M3

S3M4

S3M5

S,M,

S4M2

S4M3

S4M4

S4M5

Note:

* Seed price

Totalcost(Rs.)

80276.00

80178.00

80084.00

80296.00

79836.00

77771.97

77673.97

77579.97

77791.97

77331.97

74720.45

74622.45

74528.45

74740.45

74280.45

73503.17

73405.17

73311.17

73523.17

73063.17

Rs. 300.00

* * Chilli powder price Rs.

Seedyield

(q/ha)*

7.22

7.67

7.36

7.46

5.67

7.59

8.57

6.96

6.96

5.75

4.87

4.56

4.15

5.06

3.50

4.94

4.78

4.05

4.12

3.80

per kg

20.00 per kg

Chillipowder

(q/ha) * *

16.69

18.96

17.49

14.90

16.41

17.71

20.37

15.97

15.53

16.24

10.20

11.33

11.79

9.98

9.69

11.88

11.31

13.68

10.39

9.54

Grossreturn(Rs.)

249980.00

268020.00

255780.00

253600.00

202920.00

263120.00

297840.00

240740.00

239860.00

204980.00

166500.00

159460.00

144080.00

171760.00

124380.00

171960.00

166020.00

148860.00

144380.00

133080.00

Netreturn(Rs.)

169704.00

187842.00

175690.00

173304.00

123084.00

185348.03

220166.03

163160.03

162068.03

127648.03

91779.55

84837.55

69551.55

97019.55

50099.55

98456.83

92614.83

75548.83

70856.83

60016.83

Netbenefitcostratio

2.12

2.34

2.19

2.16

1.55

2.38

2.84

2.10

1.08

1.66

1.23

1.14

0.94

1.31

0.71

1.34

1.31

1.03

0.97

0.82