EFFECT OF TIME AND AMOUNT OF IRRIGATION ON THE GROWTH, YIELD, PHYSICOCHEMICAL QUALITY AND SHELF LIFE OF SWEET PEPPER (Capsicum annum var. Yolo Wonder)

ABSTRACT Knowledge of the required amount of irrigation and the time in the day to irrigate is very important for the efficient use of irrigation water and the maximization of vegetable yield and quality. In this experiment, the effect of time of irrigation (morning and evening) and amount of irrigation (100%ETc, 90%ETc and 80%ETc) on the growth, yield, physicochemical quality, shelf life, WUE and economic value of sweet pepper was investigated using completely randomized design with 3 replications. Plant growth increased as irrigation amount decreased from 100%ETc to 80%ETc for both crops irrigated in the morning and evening but was high in irrigating in the evening than in the morning. Fruit yield was significant and reduced as amount of irrigation decreases (100% > 90%ETc > 80%ETc) in both morning and evening irrigated crops. The yield was high in crops irrigated in the evening than the morning counterparts. Physicochemical qualities were better in less irrigated crops (80%ETc and 90%ETc) than full irrigated crops (100%ETc) for both morning and evening irrigated crops. Fruits from crops irrigated in the morning had better physicochemical qualities (Firmness, TSS, TA and pH) than fruits of crops irrigated in the evening. Shelf life was significant and increases as irrigation amount reduces for both morning and evening irrigated crops. Irrigating in the evening with 90%ETc had the highest WUE of 6.5Kg/m3 and a cost-benefit ratio of 1:30.81. Irrigating sweet pepper in the evening with 10% reduction in CWR (90%ETc) have no significant effect on fruit yield and it improves fruit quality, extends shelf life as well as increase WUE and maximize profit.