The yield of pepper hybrid seeds is primarily influenced by several key factors, including plant density per unit area, the number of hybrids per plant, the seed count per individual 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 strategies to ensure successful hybrid seed production.
First, determining the appropriate sowing date is critical to align the flowering periods of the male and female parents. The general sowing window ranges from early December to early January, depending on the maturity of the parent plants. The goal is to have the male parent flower first, followed by the female parent, ensuring optimal pollination timing.
Second, seedling preparation involves several important steps. Seeds are first soaked in warm water (50–55°C) for 8–12 hours, then disinfected using a 10% phosphoric acid or 2% sodium hydroxide solution for 15–20 minutes. After washing thoroughly, the seeds are germinated at a constant temperature of 28–30°C, with daily rinsing and occasional addition of 0.02% boric acid. When germination reaches 60%, the seeds can be sown.
For the seedbed, a nutrient-rich mix of decomposed organic manure (such as pig or chicken manure), topsoil, and small amounts of fungicides like carbendazim and chlorothalonil is used. The seedbed is prepared in either a greenhouse or an open field, with proper fertilization and soil aeration.
Sowing is done by watering the bed first, applying a thin layer of mancozeb zinc, and evenly distributing the seeds at a rate of about 10 grams per square meter. A layer of medicated soil is then added, followed by a 0.8–1.0 cm layer of nutrient-rich soil.
Seedling management requires careful temperature control. During the initial growth phase, daytime temperatures should be around 30°C, while nighttime temperatures drop to 18–20°C. Once the seedlings emerge, the temperature is gradually reduced to 23–25°C during the day and 15–17°C at night to prevent leggy growth. Watering is limited, and only when leaves show signs of wilting. Transplanting occurs when two true leaves appear, using spacing of 10 cm x 10 cm.
Third, site preparation and planting involve deep plowing with sufficient organic fertilizer, diammonium phosphate, and potassium sulfate. High ridges are created, and plastic mulch is applied to retain moisture and warmth. Planting is done at 30 cm x 50 cm spacing, with a 1:2.5–3 ratio of male to female plants.
Field management includes insulation and cold protection until mid-April, followed by controlled ventilation and humidity management. From May onward, frequent watering and shading help maintain optimal conditions. Fertilization focuses on promoting female plant development, with urea applied during sunny days and irrigation during early flowering. Top-dressing with potassium dihydrogen phosphate is recommended before pollination. Male plants require water control to extend their flowering period, while females are monitored closely for pests.
Disease and pest control is essential throughout the growing season. Common diseases include damping-off, blight, bacterial wilt, and viral infections. Treatments include fungicides such as metalaxyl, mancozeb, and copper-based products. Insect pests like whiteflies and aphids are managed using insecticides like Praxanthine and Omethoate.
Finally, hybrid seed production involves careful selection of flowers and pollen collection. Pollen is collected early in the morning and stored properly. Manual pollination is performed by removing petals and transferring pollen to the female stigma. Marking the pollinated flowers ensures purity, and seeds are harvested once the peppers turn red, dried under ventilated conditions to maintain quality.
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