Modeling the Effects of Weed Interference Periods and Insects on Bell Peppers (Capsicum annuum)

Abstract

Field experiments were conducted at Frederick, MD, in 1985 and 1986 to determine effects of weed-interference periods and insects on bell peppers. Weed-interference periods of approximately 40 and 60 d reduced both bell pepper fruit number and weight 10 and 50%, respectively. Bell pepper foliage weight was reduced 10 and 50% with approximately 20- and 50-day weed-interference periods. In 1985 and 1986, insect populations were low with an average of 10 and 3% of the pepper fruit infested, respectively. Most infested fruit was damaged by European corn borer. No significant differences in insect infestation of fruit as related to time of weed-interference periods were noted.