EFFECT OF PINCHING ON THE GROWTH AND YIELD OF CHILI (Capsicum annuum)

Pinching is known to invigorate the growth of multiple shoots, promotes the growth of lateral, and increases fruit formation. An experiment was conducted in the field of the Gokuleshwor Agriculture and Animal Science College, Baitadi, Nepal to examine the effect of pinching on the growth and yield of the chili (Capsicum annuum). The experiment utilized the 'NS-1701 variety and was carried out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with five replications and four treatments; pinching at 20, 30, and 40 days after transplanting (DAT), and no pinching as control. Results revealed significant effects of pinching on various parameters, including plant height, leaf number, number of branches, number of fruits, and fruit yield. The maximum plant height was observed in the control group without pinching. The maximum number of branches, the highest leaf number, the greatest number of fruits, and the highest yield were achieved when pinching was performed at 30 DAT as compared to other treatments and control. Based on the observed result, it can be concluded that pinching the chili plants at 30 DAT was the most effective approach for achieving optimal growth and yield.