In capsicum production, the yields are dependent on several factors mainly the variety and the nutrition programme used. To attain high yields, a farmer has to not only ensure the fruits are of bigger size but also the harvesting period is prolonged. This longer production period of uniform high quality fruits (right shape, size, colour and shelf-life) is essential for profitable capsicum farming in Kenya.
The type of fertilizer applied and the stage (time) of application is key in ensuring that the nutrients are available ‘just in time’ for plant uptake.
Capsicums will generally do well at a pH range of 5.5-6.8 hence it is important to ameliorate your soils accordingly or at least avoid the commonly highly acidifying fertilizer products for sustainable use of our soils. Like all other crops, a balanced nutrient supply is needed for optimum productivity and profitability. Alongside proper nutrition, all other agronomic practices have to be adhered to, including timely weeding, pest and disease management.
Capsicums are particularly susceptible to pests such as thrips among others and diseases like powdery mildews, that have to be properly managed to ensure a longer productive period.
Fertilization Application
At crop establishment stage, it is essential to ensure early vigorous growth to build enough food reserves for the reproductive phase. Establish the crop with a balanced NPK fertilizer, supplying the phosphorous and initial nitrogen and potassium requirement for early crop development. This should be applied within seven days after transplanting.
Just like tomatoes, soluble calcium and boron are important in preventing disorders such as blossom end rot and give longer lasting fruits. NITRABOR is, therefore, an important fertilizer to apply as a first top dress 3-4 weeks after transplanting. At the onset of flowering and fruiting stage, application of an NPK with a high K, such as Winner, as well as trace elements is critical for to ensure high productivity and quality of capsicums.
To ensure the harvesting period is prolonged, continued application of the YaraMila Winner fertilizer in splits after every four harvests (four weeks) is essential in ensuring the crop continues to flower and produce more and good quality fruits, translating to better farmer profitability.
via Seeds of Gold
