Effect of vermicompost on fruit yield and quality of bell pepper

Abstract

In this study effect of application of food waste vermicomposts to soil on antioxidant compounds, fruit yield and quality of sweet pepper (<em>Capsicum annum </em>L.) were investigated in field condition. Four vermicompost levels (0, 5, 10 and 15 t/ha) were applied to soil based on a randomized complete block design with three replications. The results showed that the highest (21.87 kg m²)and lowest (14.69 kg m²)fruit yield were achieved in plants treated with 5 t/ha vermicompost and control, respectively.Vermicompost treatments positively influenced fruit antioxidant compounds (antioxidant activity, total phenolic, carbohydrate content and total flavonoid). The highest antioxidant activity (81%) and carbohydrate content were obtained in plants treated with 10 t/ha vermicompost, while their lowest values were recorded in the control plants. Fruit quality indices (pH, titratable acidity, ascorbic acid and fruit firmness) were significantly influenced by vermicompost treatments. However, no significant difference was found for total soluble solids between treatments. There were 40, 61 and 56% increase in the amount of Titratable acidity, ascorbic acid content and fruit firmness following application of vermicompost (15 t/ha) when compared to their values in control, respectively. In conclusion, soil application of vermicompost can positively influence antioxidant compounds, fruit yield and quality of pepper.