Author
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Abdul Baki, Aref |
|
Teasdale, John |
|
Submitted to: Pepper National Conference Abstracts
Publication Type: Proceedings Publication Acceptance Date: 11/1/1998 Publication Date: N/A Citation: N/A Interpretive Summary: Peppers are conventionally grown in a high input system using raised beds and covering them with polyethylene mulch to facilitate drainage of excessive water and reduce the growth of weeds. A low-input production system was evaluated using a mulch derived from a hairy vetch cover crop as a substitute for polyethylene. The cover crop mulch was not as effective as polyethylene in controlling weeds. Additional practices such as, cultivation and chemical weed control may be needed for more effective suppression of weeds in the cover crop mulch system. Users of this research include small- and large-scale farmers, extension specialists, soil conservationists, and faculty of agriculture at universities. Technical Abstract: Eight varieties of peppers were evaluated for yield under two cultural systems - a conventional system which utilizes plastic mulch on elevated beds, and a plant mulch system which utilizes residues from cover crops and raised beds or ridges. Yields were highest on the black polyethylene mulch and lowest on the ridges. The cover crop mulches did not adequately suppress weed growth. Furthermore, the soil in ridges did not hold adequate moisture for plant growth. It appears that plant mulches must be supplemented with cultivation and herbicide application to provide adequate control of weeds. |
