Evaluation of Four Local Types of Hot Pepper (Capsicum Annum) in the Forest Zone of Ghana

Abstract

The performance of four local types of hot pepper (Capsicum spp)  locally named Makowham, Kpakpo Shito, Ntonkom (Akwele waabi) and Mesewa were evaluated. The plants were grown on plots arranged in a complete randomized design with four replications. Observations on vegetative growth revealed wide differences in plant form and susceptibility to some common diseases, such as the wilt disease. Significant differences were recorded between the types in their anthesis, date to first harvest, mean fruit yield and seed yield. There was also an indication of low seed viability for almost all lines. Based on the results obtained, apart from Mesewa, all other types can be recommended for fruit and seed production in the forest area of Ghana but further work need to be done to confirm the findings. Mesewa, however, can be grown for fruits to be harvested green for local markets. If growing Mesewa for ripe fruits, protection against bird damage would have to be provided