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Objective: To evaluate the effect of different levels of shade coverage using black mesh on the growth and production of two ecotypes of piquin chili cultivated with plastic mulch.
Design/methodology/approach: 16 g of fruits from wild plants of Ecotypes I and II were collected to analyze their morphological differences. Under greenhouse conditions, germination rate and germination percentage, as well as seedling height and diameter, were evaluated for both ecotypes. A completely randomized block design with eight replications was used. Subsequently, 80-day-old plants were transplanted to the field and established under four shade net treatments: T1 (0% shade), T2 (35%), T3 (50%), and T4 (90%). The variables evaluated in the field included plant height and diameter, and fruit yield.
Results: Two ecotypes of piquin chili peppers were morphologically characterized. Ecotype I showed higher emergence (70%) than Ecotype II. Under greenhouse conditions, both ecotypes exhibited similar development; however, in the field, Ecotype I showed greater vegetative development. Treatment T3 increased fruit production in both ecotypes. Shade levels did not significantly affect plant growth.
Limitations on study/implications: Piquin chili peppers are harvested in agroforestry systems. Given its high demand, shade cover promotes sustainable intensification as an agronomic alternative for its cultivation.
Findings/conclusions: Shade coverage is an intensive and sustainable strategy that helps to genetically conserve chili pepper ecotypes during production.