Effect of Plastic Mulch on Weed Intensity, Yield and Economics of Chilli (Capsicum annum L.)

Abstract

The present on farm trial (OFT) was carried out at 20 farmer's field of Sikar during Zaid 2019–20 and 2020–21 to assess the effectof plastic mulch on growth, yield and economics of chilli crop. Two treatments were T1farmer's practice (without mulch) and T2 double coated silver-black plastic mulch (25 micron) in this study. Data on various parameters viz., weed density, plant height, number of primary branches/plant, days to 50% flowering, green fruit yield/plant and fruit yield/ha were recorded. Economics of various treatments was also worked out and B:C ratio was calculated. There was a very high significant difference between black plastic mulch and control. Pooled data of both years reveled that the treatment T2 (plastic mulch) recorded minimum weed intensity (5.50), maximum plant height (48.50 cm), number of primary branches/plant (10.0), minimum days to 50% flowering (55.45), green fruit yield/plant (649.4g) and green fruit yield/ha (274.95 q). The maximum net return/hectare (Rs 320725/-) and benefit cost ratio (4.50) were recorded with treatment T2, whereas, the minimum net return (Rs 262675/-) and benefit cost ratio (4.01) were recorded in T1i.e., in farmer's practices.