During the cultivation of peppers, farmers often encounter problems such as low flower quantity, small size of individual fruits, low yield, and poor fruiting, with the most critical reason being insufficient nutrient supply. Therefore, fertilization should be emphasized in pepper cultivation. So, how should pepper fertilizer be applied? Let's find out together.
How to Apply Pepper Fertilizer?
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Topdressing during Seedling Stage: For early-maturing pepper varieties, topdressing during the seedling stage can promote the growth and development of seedlings, improving their quality. The timing and amount of topdressing should be based on soil fertility. If the fertility of the seedbed is insufficient, timely topdressing is necessary to avoid affecting flower bud differentiation in peppers.
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Heavy Application of Base Fertilizer: Fields where peppers are planted require heavy application of base fertilizer, preferably organic fertilizer. Organic fertilizers such as compost, stable manure, pig manure, cake fertilizer, and wood ash contain comprehensive nutrients that release slowly, ensuring a longer duration of fertility. This gentle approach is less likely to damage pepper roots and seedlings.
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Fertilization in the Early Growth Stage: During the early growth stage of peppers, when the weather is still cool, applying a small amount of diluted manure water along with weekly watering can supplement nutrient requirements. When applying diluted manure water, avoid mixing it with wood ash to prevent reduced fertilizer efficacy.
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Topdressing at Fruit Maturation: When pepper fruits begin to rapidly expand, apply another round of fertilization to enhance the plant's ability to withstand high temperatures. Generally, applying 20 kilograms of urea and 10 kilograms of potassium sulfate per mu is sufficient. When topdressing, focus on furrow application, burying the fertilizer 5-10 centimeters below the soil surface near the root zone.
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Precautions:
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Avoid fertilizing on rainy days and be cautious during hot and dry weather to prevent excessive accumulation of fertilizers in ponds, leading to oxygen depletion in the water. Avoid over-fertilization, especially when dissolved oxygen levels are low.
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Do not apply excessive fertilizer before the flowering stage to prevent excessive vegetative growth, which can lead to flower and fruit drop. Peppers are potassium-loving crops, so potassium fertilizer should be applied during the late flowering, fruiting, and ripening stages. It is best to use quick-dissolving, environmentally friendly high-potassium water-soluble fertilizers.
The above are the guidelines for applying pepper fertilizer. Pepper plants have a long harvesting period and require significant amounts of nutrients. Proper fertilization management during cultivation can lay the foundation for high pepper yields.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
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Q: How often should pepper fertilizer be applied?
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A: Pepper fertilizer application frequency depends on the growth stage of the plant and soil fertility. Generally, topdressing is done during the seedling stage, early growth stage, and fruit maturation stage.
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Q: Can I use chemical fertilizers for peppers?
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A: Yes, chemical fertilizers can be used for peppers, but it is important to apply them judiciously and follow recommended dosage rates to prevent fertilizer burn and other adverse effects.
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Q: What are the signs of over-fertilization in peppers?
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A: Signs of over-fertilization in peppers include leaf burn, stunted growth, and excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit development.
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Q: How can I improve soil fertility for pepper cultivation?
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A: Soil fertility can be improved by incorporating organic matter such as compost, manure, and green manure into the soil. Additionally, maintaining proper soil pH and microbial activity is essential for optimal nutrient availability.
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Q: Is foliar feeding effective for peppers?
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A: Foliar feeding can be effective for supplying nutrients to pepper plants, especially during periods of rapid growth or nutrient deficiency. However, it should not be used as a substitute for soil fertilization and should be applied judiciously to prevent leaf burn.
