What fertilizer is best for pepper seedlings?

There are many varieties of chili peppers, from string peppers, Chaotian peppers to tiger skin peppers, ox horn peppers, and the highly sought-after Zhangshugang peppers. With the increase in the number of growers and consumers' high demands for quality, the high value of chili peppers can no longer be guaranteed by rarity alone. Challenges faced by growers include few flowers, small fruits, few fruits and low yields, which are often related to insufficient nutrient supply during the growth of peppers, and blind fertilization may be one of the causes of this problem. Let’s learn and understand what is the best fertilizer to apply during the pepper seedling stage ?

What fertilizer is best for pepper seedlings?

1. Seedling base fertilizer

The base fertilizer for pepper seedlings is essential for the healthy growth of seedlings. 5,000 to 6,000 kilograms of decomposed organic fertilizer can be applied per mu, mixed with potassium sulfate and superphosphate. This method of fertilization can not only enhance the air permeability and water retention capacity of the soil, but also provide sufficient nutrients for peppers, promote the germination rate and the formation of strong seedlings.

2. Topdressing during the seedling period

Some pepper farmers may neglect the topdressing management after germination after applying a large amount of base fertilizer, thinking that the base fertilizer is sufficient to support the growth of seedlings. In fact, top dressing should be done in time after the peppers emerge to promote root development and strengthen the seedlings. You can choose a special rooting agent, such as Tianyuan Fengqing Genwang, dilute it with water and apply it by foliar spray or drip irrigation.

Pepper growth stages and fertilizer requirements

1. From seedling emergence to bud appearance

At this stage, peppers require relatively little fertilizer, accounting for about 5% of the total fertilizer application. Focus on applying enough base fertilizer and avoid over-fertilization to promote the development of new roots.

2. From the appearance of flower buds to the initial blooming of flowers

As roots and new leaves grow rapidly, fertilizer requirements increase to 10% of the total fertilizer application. Increase fertilizer moderately, but still control the amount of fertilizer applied to support healthy growth of peppers.

3. From the beginning of blooming to the peak flowering period

The fertilizer requirement increases significantly during this stage, reaching 35% of the total fertilizer application. Increase fertilizer supply to meet the vigorous needs of peppers in terms of root system, branches and leaves, and flowering and fruiting.

4. From blooming to fruit ripening and harvesting

This is the stage when peppers require the most fertilizer, accounting for 50% of the total fertilizer application. Ensure adequate fertilizer and water supply to support continued flowering and fruit ripening of peppers.

In summary, the seedling stage of pepper is a critical stage in its transition from vegetative growth to reproductive growth, and the demand for nutrients is relatively large. Therefore, reasonable fertilization is essential to ensure the healthy growth of pepper seedlings.