Effect of Foliar Application of Manganese, Zinc and Copper on Growth and Yield of Chilli (Capsicum annum. L)

Abstract

Chilli ( Capsicum annum L.) is an important spice crop grown in Sri Lanka. Deficiency of micronutrients, especially Mn, Zn and Cu reported in chilli growing areas has affected adversely on chilli production. Therefore, a study was conducted to evaluate the effect of foliar application of Mn, Zn and Cu on growth and yield of chilli grown in Reddish Brown Earth soils (Rhodustalfs), in dry zone, Sri Lanka. Seven treatments were tested in a greenhouse as pot experiment. Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium were added into all seven treatments. Manganese Zn and Cu were added separately as foliar application for three treatments. One treatment had all three elements and control treatment had only N, P and K but no any added elements. Since all micronutrients were added as their sulfate form, last two treatments had S with N, P and K to assess the effect of S on plant growth. Copper with N, P, K added treatment showed significantly higher growth and yield compared to other treatments. It showed about 25% yield increment compared to control treatment. Therefore, it can be concluded that application of Cu is beneficial to obtain a better yield in chilli in Reddish Brown Earth Soils (Rhodustalfs). However, further field studies are needed to confirm findings.