Peppers

Download or read book Peppers written by Vincent M. Russo and published by CABI. This book was released on 2012 with total page 308 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The group of plants called pepper is diverse, containing plants that contribute to the fresh and processed markets and are also used in pharmaceuticals and other non-food commercial products. Peppers developed in tropical regions, but are grown and used in every country where they can be grown and in countries where production is difficult. The book examines peppers from historical, genetic, physiological, production, and post-harvest standpoints following the development of the cultivated crop from the wild type. The diverse examples of pod types that have been developed and their variation in pungency are examined. Production methods, including the importance of fertilization and irrigation are discussed, as are the constraints on production, including pests, pathogens and weeds. Harvesting methods and the post-harvest challenges and opportunities, which exist at a level not found for other crops, will be explored.