Improvement of growth characteristics and fruit set in bell pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) through IAA application

Abstract

High temperature coinciding with reproductive phase in Capsicum annuum is most detrimental to its yield and productivity because of increased abscission of floral organs. Floral abscission under high temperature is associated with increased biosynthesis of ethylene and ABA with a decline in auxin. The present study was planned to investigate the effect of exogenous application of IAA on growth characteristicand fruit set in bell pepper. Four concentrations of IAA i.e. @ 50, 100, 150, 200 µg ml−1 were applied as foliar application. Improvement in growth in terms of plant height, plant spread, leaf area, photosynthetic pigments, level of total soluble sugars, proteins and proline content was recorded in treated plants as compared to controls. Application of IAA resulted in reduced lipid peroxidation in leaf tissue. Cellulose activity in pedicel of flowers was also found to decrease with IAA which resulted in more retention of flowers in treated plants. Yield and yield attributes were also enhanced due to increase in fruit set percent. 100 µg ml−1 IAA application in hybrid Indra plants proved to be the most effective.