Optimization of some Agronomic Practices to Enhance Yield of Scotch Bonnet Pepper (<em>Capsicum chinense</em> Jacq.) under Controlled Cultivation

Scotch Bon net (Capsicum chinense L), locally known as “Nai Miris”, has gained prominence in Sri Lanka’s Protected Agriculture sector due to its high market value. But, the lack of specialized management practices suited for protected culture of this species is a challenge. This study seeks to optimize the agronomic management practices to enhance the yield of Scotch Bonnet grown in polytunnels. The experiment was conducted at the Regional Agriculture Research and Development Centre, Bandarawela during Yala 2022. Two growth media: a coir dust and partially burned paddy husk mixture (Medium A) and a topsoil and compost b lend (Medium B), Two plant spacings (75 x 50 cm and 100 x 75 cm) and two pruning management systems (pruned and unpruned) were tested using split plot design with 4 replicates. Results revealed that plant spacing did not significantly affect yield. However, pruning had a negative impact on fruit yield (p <0.0123), where unpruned plants yielding m ore, especially in Medium A at closer spacing (1.048 kg/plant). Medium B produced the highest yield (1.022 kg /plant) with unpruned plants and wider spacing. Growth media significantly influenced yield (p < 0.0054), and the interaction between pruning and media was highly significant (p < 0.0003). These findings indicate that selecting optimal growth media and spacing configurations can enhance Scotch Bonnet Capsicum production in polytunnels.