The yield of pepper hybrid seeds largely depends on several key factors, including plant density per unit area, the number of hybrids produced per plant, the seed count per hybrid, and the 1000-seed weight. Additionally, cultivation techniques and cross-pollination methods play a crucial role in achieving high yields. This article outlines essential technical measures for successful hybrid seed production.
First, determining the sowing date is critical to ensure that flowering periods align. The principle of "the father flowers first, waiting for the mother" should be followed. Based on the maturity of the parent plants, the general sowing period ranges from early December to early January.
Second, seedling preparation involves several important steps. Seeds are first soaked in warm water (50-55°C) and stirred until the temperature drops to about 30°C. They are then soaked for 8-12 hours and treated with a 10% phosphoric acid or 2% sodium hydroxide solution for 15-20 minutes. After washing thoroughly, they are germinated at a constant temperature of 28-30°C. The seeds are frequently turned, and fresh water with 0.02% boric acid is used daily. When germination reaches 60%, the seeds can be sown.
Next, preparing the seedbed involves mixing decomposed organic manure (such as pig, chicken, or cow dung) with topsoil in a 6:4 ratio. A small amount of carbendazim and chlorothalonil is added to prevent diseases. The seedbed can be prepared in a greenhouse or under a shelter. Each square meter is fertilized with 5 kg of organic fertilizer and 0.25 kg of diammonium phosphate, then deeply tilled and compacted.
Sowing is done by first watering the bed with about 6 cm of water, then applying a thin layer of mancozeb zinc before sowing. Seeds are evenly distributed at 10 grams per square meter, covered with a thin layer of medicinal soil and then 0.8-1.0 cm of nutrient-rich soil.
Seedling management requires maintaining daytime temperatures around 30°C and nighttime temperatures between 18-20°C before emergence. After seedlings emerge, temperatures are gradually reduced to 23-25°C during the day and 15-17°C at night to prevent leggy growth. Watering is controlled, and only done when leaves show signs of wilting. Transplanting occurs when two true leaves appear, using spacing of 10 cm x 10 cm or individual planting in 8 cm x 10 cm pots. During the transplanting phase, temperatures are kept at 28-30°C during the day and 18-20°C at night. Shade is provided during midday if needed. After the first true leaf appears, soil is lightly covered each time, and humidity is maintained. Seedlings should receive at least 8 hours of light daily. Seven to ten days before planting, seedlings are acclimated to lower temperatures (20°C during the day and 12-15°C at night).
Third, field preparation involves applying 5,000 kg of organic fertilizer, 30 kg of diammonium phosphate, and 20 kg of potassium sulfate per acre. The soil is plowed to a depth of 30 cm and mixed thoroughly. High ridges are formed, and plastic film is used to cover the beds, ensuring tight sealing.
Planting is done at a spacing of 30 cm x 50 cm, with approximately 4,000 plants per acre. The ratio of male to female parents is 1:2.5–3. Female parents are typically planted in greenhouses in late March, while some male parents are planted later to ensure continuous pollen supply.
After planting, the focus is on insulation and cold protection until mid-April. Once the weather warms, ventilation and humidity control become important. From mid-May onwards, dry and hot winds increase, requiring regular irrigation to maintain moisture. Pollen dehydration reduces germination power, and female stigma desiccation leads to poor pollination. Fertilizer management focuses on promoting female parent development before seed production, with urea applied on sunny days. Water is given during the early flowering stage to encourage more blooms and raise greenhouse temperatures. After five fruits set on the female parent, topdressing with 0.3% potassium dihydrogen phosphate is recommended before pollination. Male parents require water control after flowering to extend their blooming period. In the late pollination phase, the female parent’s water is managed carefully, and pest control is intensified.
Disease and pest control is vital. Common diseases include damping-off, blight, bacterial wilt, anthracnose, gray mold, and virus disease. Treatments include metalaxyl, mancozeb, copper sulfate, and other fungicides, applied every 7–10 days. Infected areas are sterilized with methyl bromide, and diseased plants are removed immediately. For pests like whiteflies and aphids, insecticides such as Praxanthine and Omethoate are used.
Finally, hybrid seed production involves selecting suitable flowers for cross-pollination. Flowers should be fully developed, with white scapes and ready to open the next day. Pollen is collected in the morning, stored in a cool, ventilated place, and used for manual pollination. After pollination, marked flowers are monitored, and opened flowers are removed to maintain hybrid purity. Harvesting occurs after the peppers turn red, with seeds dried in a well-ventilated, shaded area to preserve quality.
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