Effect of a dynamic climate control on energy saving, yield and shelf life of spring production of bell peppers ( Capsicum annuum L.)
Year: 2003
Type: article
Abstract: Summary Bell pepper 'Fiesta' ( Capsicum annuum ) was grown in a novel dynamic climate concept called "Intelli-Grow" together with a number of potted plants with an aim to save energy under low light conditions and optimize photosynthesis (and thereby carbon gain that can be used for growth) under high light conditions. The dynamic climates utilized the plants' ability to increase photosynthesis and productivity under adequate light conditions by allowing temperature to increase while supplying the plants with extra CO 2 . Energy was saved by allowing the temperature to decrease to lower levels than usual at low light conditions, when the temperature response curve of photosynthesis is very flat. Both temperature and CO 2 was determined by the light level (light-dependent temperature and CO 2 increase in the climate computer). It was possible to reduce the energy use needed for bell pepper growth by up to 21% in this experiment depending on climate control strategy. Temperatures below 17°C reduced the fruit quality in terms of size and quality, increased the risk of grey mould, and delayed harvest. On the other hand, the total number of fruits was not affected in a similar way. The standard climate of 21/19 h (day/night) with 600 ppm CO 2 in light and the dynamic climate using 80% photosynthesis and a minimum temperature set point of 17°C, especially in combination with short peaks of higher night temperature, gave the same or better harvest and approximately the same quality. The fruits in the warmest climate, however, had a slightly lower dry matter percentage. There were limited damages (spots, sun burns) due to the relatively higher temperatures during the day even though the air temperature was allowed to increase to 30°C during the day. The increased CO 2 level might have alleviated some of the potential damages due to high fruit temperatures. The major problem was the presence of flower remains on the fruits, which created an entry point for grey mould. The postharvest quality of the fruits was, therefore, poorer in the dynamic climates due to infection with Botrytis primarily through the flowers and secondarily through the fruit stem. A modified energy saving strategy, therefore, requires a change in harvest procedure to remove flower remains.
Authors: C. O. Ottosen, E. Rosenqvist, L. Sørensen
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4408864229