Effect of Different Nitrogen Levels on the Growth and Yield of Sweet Pepper [Capsicum annuum (L.)] in Mubi North Adamawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the effect of nitrogen levels on the growth and yield of sweet pepper [Capsicum annuum (L.)] under field conditions. The experiment was conducted using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four nitrogen levels 0, 50 100, and 150 kg N ha-1 , replicated three times. Data was collected on plant height, number of leaves, lateral branches, stem girth, number of fruit, fruit length, fruit weight, and total fruit yield, and were analyzed using analysis of variance. The results revealed that nitrogen fertilizer significantly influenced of both vegetative growth and yield components of sweet pepper. Increase in nitrogen levels enhanced growth and yield up to 100 kg N ha-1 , beyond which yield declined. The highest growth and yield performance were obtained at 100 kg N ha-1 , indicating this rate as the optimum for sweet pepper production under the conditions of the study. The findings highlight the importance of nitrogen nutrition in improving sweet pepper productivity and suggest that excessive nitrogen application does not necessarily enhance yield. The study recommends the application of 100 kg N ha-1 for optimal performance and efficient nutrient use in sweet pepper cultivation.