Capsicum Cultivation Challenge Quiz

Explore the essential practices and knowledge required for successful capsicum (bell pepper) cultivation, covering climate, soil, planting, and pest management. This easy quiz helps reinforce foundational horticultural concepts for both beginners and enthusiasts.

1. Ideal Climate for Capsicum

   Which temperature range is considered ideal for growing healthy capsicum plants and maximizing fruit yield?

   1. 33°C to 40°C
   2. 5°C to 15°C
   3. 10°C to 18°C
   4. 18°C to 30°C

   Explanation: Capsicum thrives in moderate climates, with 18°C to 30°C being optimal for growth and fruiting. Temperatures below 15°C slow growth, while those above 33°C may cause flower drop. The range 10°C to 18°C is too cool, and 5°C to 15°C is unsuitable for healthy development.

2. Soil Requirements

   What type of soil is best suited for capsicum cultivation for good drainability and nutrient availability?

   1. Saline-sodic soil
   2. Rocky gravel
   3. Well-drained sandy loam
   4. Heavy clay

   Explanation: Well-drained sandy loam allows for proper root aeration and retains essential nutrients for capsicum. Heavy clay soils drain poorly, saline-sodic soils hinder plant growth due to excess salts, and rocky gravel lacks nutrient-holding capacity.

3. Optimal Planting Method

   For commercial production, which method is commonly used to establish capsicum plants in the field?

   1. Using tissue culture plants
   2. Air-layering mature stems
   3. Direct sowing seeds in the field
   4. Transplanting nursery seedlings

   Explanation: Transplanting nursery-raised seedlings ensures uniform stand and healthy early growth. Direct sowing can lead to uneven emergence, tissue culture is rare and costly for capsicum, and air-layering is not a standard propagation method for this crop.

4. Common Pest Management

   Which pest is often a major threat to capsicum crops, causing leaf curling or stunted growth if unmanaged?

   1. Aphids
   2. Cutworms
   3. Root-knot nematodes
   4. Armyworms

   Explanation: Aphids feed on plant sap, transmitting viruses and causing leaf curl or stunted growth. Cutworms damage young seedlings at soil level, root-knot nematodes affect roots, and armyworms defoliate leaves but are less likely to cause leaf curl.

5. Harvest Readiness Indicator

   How can a farmer identify that capsicum fruits are ready for harvest?

   1. Plants stop producing flowers
   2. Leaves begin to wilt
   3. Fruits reach full size and firm texture, showing characteristic color
   4. Seeds turn brown inside fruits

   Explanation: Capsicum fruits are harvested when they attain full size, a firm texture, and their typical color (green, red, or yellow, depending on the variety). Leaf wilting may indicate stress, brown seeds can signal over-maturity, and cessation of flowering isn't a direct indicator.