Why colored capsicum(hoho)/sweetpepper are only grown in greenhouses and not in open fields.

Capsicum, also known as sweet pepper or pilipili hoho, comes in vibrant colors like red, yellow, and orange, making it a favorite in markets and kitchens. These brightly colored varieties are special compared to the common green capsicum. They grow taller, are more delicate, and require specific growing conditions, which is why they are mainly cultivated in greenhouses. Let’s explore the reasons behind this and share a real-life experience from Kimbimbi, Mwea, in Kirinyaga County, Kenya.

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The Greenhouse Advantage

Controlled Weather Conditions
Colored capsicum is a unique variety that grows taller than green capsicum, making it more prone to falling when exposed to strong winds in open fields. Greenhouses provide a stable environment, shielding the plants from such winds and other harsh weather like frost and heatwaves.

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Additionally, this variety is not resistant to sun scalding, a condition caused by direct exposure to intense sunlight. Sun scalding results in discolored patches on the fruit, reducing its quality. In a greenhouse, capsicum is protected from excessive heat and direct sunlight, ensuring healthy and market-ready fruits.

Light Intensity Control

Colored capsicum requires adequate but not excessive light to grow and develop its vibrant colors. In a greenhouse, light intensity is regulated using shading nets or other tools to ensure the plants receive just the right amount of light. Excessive sunlight in open fields can lead to stress, reducing photosynthesis and overall productivity.



My Experience Planting Colored Capsicum in Kimbimbi, Mwea

A few years ago, I decided to plant colored capsicum in the open fields of Kimbimbi, Mwea, in Kirinyaga County. The climate seemed favorable, and I was optimistic about achieving good results. The plants grew well during the initial stages, with vigorous vegetation. I even started seeing the first fruits forming, which gave me hope.

below is a screenshot of a post I did in 2022 sep 24th ,on my Facebook page. (Ken the farmer )
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However, things took a turn as the fruits began to mature. The first harvest produced small and poor-quality capsicums. The vibrant colors I had anticipated were uneven, and the fruits lacked the size and appeal expected in the market. Despite my efforts to manage pests and water the plants adequately, the open-field conditions could not match the controlled environment required for this delicate variety.

That experience taught me a valuable lesson: while colored capsicum will grow, vegetate, and even produce fruits in open fields, the results will likely be far from ideal.


Why Choose Greenhouses for Capsicum Farming?

Greenhouses are more than just structures; they’re investments in better farming. They provide control over temperature, light, humidity, and pest exposure, ensuring consistent productivity and high-quality fruits. By cultivating colored capsicum in greenhouses, farmers can enjoy better yields and profits while meeting the market demand.

Colored capsicum is a delicate crop with high potential when grown under the right conditions. My experience in Mwea is proof that while open-field farming may seem cost-effective initially, the long-term benefits of greenhouse farming far outweigh the challenges. For any farmer looking to grow this vibrant crop, a greenhouse is the key to success.

~village investor.

Follow me on all social media platforms @( Ken the farmer)
 
How big is the coloured capsicum market in Kenya? Does it suffer periods of market gluts or poor market demand during the course of the year?
 
I've seen yellow / red capsicums grown in open fields in TZ and SA. No reason Kenya should be different. I messed around with them one season, with disastrous results. My suspicion is that the seeds in the market are all GMO.
 
I've seen yellow / red capsicums grown in open fields in TZ and SA. No reason Kenya should be different. I messed around with them one season, with disastrous results. My suspicion is that the seeds in the market are all GMO.
I will try sourcing seeds from outside and see the performance. What we have here grows well but with poor production even after feeding them well.
 
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