In the process of chili cultivation, flower drop is a common issue, with some instances leading to plant death, significantly affecting chili yields. So, what are the reasons for chili flower drop and how can it be resolved? Let's find out.
1. Unsuitable Temperature
Both excessively high and low temperatures can lead to defects in the development of chili flower organs, resulting in flower drop.
Solution: Control the temperature during the flowering period. Chilies prefer warmth but are intolerant to extreme temperatures. It's best to keep the daytime temperature between 20-27°C and nighttime temperature between 13-18°C when chilies are flowering and fruiting.
2. Inadequate Light
Inadequate light reduces the photosynthetic efficiency of chili plants and the accumulation of photosynthetic products, leading to flower drop.
Solution: Chilies prefer sunlight but cannot withstand strong light. Short-day and moderate light conditions are more conducive to promoting flower bud differentiation. If there's insufficient light, ensure regular ventilation, increase light exposure, or install supplemental lighting in the greenhouse.
3. Excessive Watering
Overwatering during the flowering and fruiting period causes excessive plant growth, nutrient depletion, and poor nutrient supply to flower buds, resulting in flower drop.
Solution: Water according to the soil moisture during the chili's growth stages. Maintain soil moisture levels appropriately and avoid excessive watering. After heavy rain, drain excess water immediately and irrigate with well water to cool and ventilate the soil.
4. Improper Fertilization
Excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers or excessive nutrition during seedling stage can lead to chili flower drop or excessive vegetative growth, increasing the chances of flower drop.
Solution: Implement proper fertilization practices. Chilies require more phosphorus and potassium fertilizers. Apply 15-10-20 or 20-5-25 compound fertilizer containing potassium sulfate at 25-40 kg per mu to ensure adequate nutrition during the flowering and fruiting period, and refrain from additional fertilization to prevent excessive growth.
5. Diseases and Pesticide Damage
Diseases like gray mold and improper use of pesticides can cause chili flower drop.
Solution: When applying pesticides, strictly follow the instructions and procedures specified on the label and avoid altering concentrations arbitrarily. For gray mold, preventive spraying with 50% pyraclostrobin water dispersible granules at 1000 times dilution or 50% fludioxonil water dispersible granules at 1000 times dilution can be effective.
In summary, it's crucial to address the issue of chili flower drop as it directly impacts fruit yield. Identifying the root causes and implementing targeted measures are essential to promote flower and fruit formation, thereby achieving stable and high yields.
