A recent study published in Scientific Reports highlights a promising strategy for enhancing sweet pepper production using potassium silicate (PS) and vinasse under greenhouse conditions. The research, conducted by Mahmoud S. Rady, Ibrahim M. Ghoneim, Mostafa N. Feleafel, and Shimaa M. Hassan, demonstrates that these biostimulants can significantly improve the biometric characteristics and yield of perennial sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum).
Over two consecutive growing seasons (2018/2019 and 2019/2020), the researchers treated pepper plants with varying concentrations of PS and vinasse. Plants were sprayed with PS at concentrations of 0, 0.5, and 1 g/l and drenched with vinasse at rates of 0, 1, 2, and 3 l/m³. The study aimed to evaluate the impact of these treatments on plant growth, yield, and biochemical constituents.
The findings revealed that the combination of PS at 0.5 g/l and vinasse at 3 l/m³ resulted in the most significant improvements. This optimal combination enhanced plant biomass, total leaf area, total yield, and fruit weight. Additionally, it increased leaf contents of chlorophyll, nitrogen, and potassium, and improved fruit quality by boosting total soluble solids and ascorbic acid content.
The researchers noted that adjusting the concentrations of PS and vinasse is crucial for maintaining a balance between vegetative growth and fruit production, particularly important for sweet peppers with shallow root systems. By implementing these optimal treatments, growers can achieve prolonged and enhanced fruit production, ensuring higher yields of superior quality sweet peppers in greenhouse environments.