The rationale for deflowering in pepper (Piper nigrum L. var. Kuching) cultivation

P. Y. Yau and I. Abdul Rahman Azmil

Abstract

A study was carried out at MARDI, Keluang from 1981 to 1985 to determine the rationale for deflowering (floral spike removal) in the early stage of pepper vine growth. The results obtained showed that there were no significant differences in plant height, stem diameter and canopy spread up to 27 months of plant growth regardless of the duration of deflowering. Similarly, there were no significant differences in their fourth year, fifth year and total cumulative yields. Thus, deflowering in pepper cultivation is not necessary as no benefit is gained in the first 2 years of planting.

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