The development of “Serrano” pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) under shade net conditions was evaluated, using different mixtures of vermicompost:perlite (VC:P, by volume), at the Comarca Lagunera in northern México. During 2012 spring-summer season, “Camino Real” cultivar was evaluated in five mixtures of VC:P, with ratios 0:1, 1:1, 1:2, 1:3 and 1:4. Nutrient solution was applied only in the first mixture (control) while VC was used as organic nutrient all other mixtures. Fruit length, pulp thickness, number of locules, equatorial diameter, fruit weight, number of fruits and yield were the variables evaluated. The five mixtures, with six replications, were distributed in a completely randomized design. Data were statistically analyzed by analysis of variance and means were separated by the LSD0.05 test. The maximum yield, 37.13 t•ha-1, without applying synthetic fertilizers, was obtained in the mixture VC:P with ratio 1:1, therefore is possible to conclude that the VC was able to satisfy the nutrient demand of Serrano pepper.
Key words: Capsicum annuum, food production, organic amendment, protected agriculture, vegetable growth
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