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Peppers

Last updated on September 18, 2024

Peppers

Growing peppers

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Varieties

Green bell

Encore, King Arthur, Karma, Aristotle, Revolution.

Yellow bell

Lafayette, Admiral, Gloria, Gemini, Early Sunsation, Aladdin.

Red bell

Brigadier, Encore, King Arthur, Aristotle.

Orange bell

Ariane.

Sweet yellow

Sweet Banana, Banana Supreme, Jumbo Stuff.

Pimento

Jumbo Cheese.

Hot red

Cayenne Long Slim, Super Chili, Ring of Fire.

Hot yellow

Midas Golden.

Jalapeno

VTR#7, Grande, Villano.

See your seed dealer for the most recent variety recommendations.

 

Seed treatment

Use seed treated with captan or Thiram seed protectants.

For control of Pythium damping off, use seed treated with Apron XL LS seed protectant. 

 

Temperature requirements

Peppers are warm-temperature vegetables and require a long growing season. Transplants which are grown under glass should be kept close to the following temperatures:

During the day

18 to 24°C

During the night

16 to 18°C

 

Planting

About 200 to 275 g of seed are required for a hectare of plants. Sow in the greenhouse 8 weeks before field transplanting. Peppers should be grown in plug trays to minimize root damage at transplanting. Large cell sizes such as 72s or 98s result in sturdy, early-producing plants, but because of higher costs are generally only used for early plantings. Cell sizes of 200 or more are often used for later plantings.

Smaller cells are more cost-effective, but require a high level of management to obtain quality plants. Harden transplants for about a week before transplanting to the field by reducing the moisture and maintaining a temperature of 13 to 18°C. This will give resistance to transplant shock. Growing peppers using plasticulture provides many benefits. See "Plasiculture" section of the Vegetable Production Guide: Planting (PDF) for more information.

Spacing

Rows 75 to 90 cm apart, plants in the row 30 to 40 cm apart. If planting on a plastic mulch, a double-row system is used with double rows 45 cm apart.

 

Fertilizer

A soil test is necessary to determine phosphate and potash requirements. Use the Vegetable Production Guide: Nutrient Management (PDF) for recommendations based on soil test results.  

Broadcast and disc in 100 kg/ha (40 kg/acre) nitrogen and all the required phosphate and potash.

Side-dress with 40 kg/ha (16 kg/acre) of nitrogen after the first flowers are set.

If mulching and trickle irrigation are used, nutrients should be delivered by fertigation. See “Fertigation” section of the Vegetable Production Guide: Planting (PDF) for more information.

 

Storage

Peppers should be stored between 7 and 10°C with a relative humidity of 85 – 90%

 

Pepper weed management

Effective weed control and other benefits can be obtained by using black or wavelength selective plastic mulch. See “Plastic mulches” section of the Vegetable Production Guide: Planting (PDF) for more information, and use the tables below for chemical control instructions.

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Pre-plant incorporated

Pre-plant incorporated: herbicide application rates
Product Rate PHI* Comments

Bonanza 480

(trifluralin)

Group 3		 1.25 to 2.3 L/ha
(500 to 900 mL/acre)

Apply in at least 100 L/ha (40 L/acre) water at 275 kPa 		N/A
  • Registered for transplanted peppers.
  • Rates vary with soil type, see label for detail.
  • Apply treatment from 3 weeks before planting and incorporate thoroughly within 24 hours to 8 to 10 cm deep.
  • Controls seedling grasses and some broadleaved weeds.
  • Lady’s-thumb, nightshades, shepherd’s-purse and mustards are not controlled.
  • Use the lowest rate on sandy soil, the higher rate on heavy textured soils.
  • Effectiveness is reduced on cold, wet soils or on mineral soils with less than 2% or greater than 15% organic matter.
  • See label for rates by soil type.
  • If manure is spread prior to application ensure it has been thoroughly mixed into soil with at least 2 tillage operations prior to application.
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours.

Devrinol 50-DF

(napropamide)

Group 15

2.24 to 4.5 kg/ha
(0.9 to 1.8 kg/acre)

Apply in 200 to 900 L/ha (80 to 365 L/acre) of water

 N/A
  • Apply once per season.
  • Controls a variety of annual grasses and annual broadleaf weeds.
  • Not recommended for use on soils with over 10% organic matter.
  • There is a 12 month plant back restriction on crops not found on the label.
  • Use lower rate on light soils.
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours.

Devrinol 50-DF

(napropamide)

Group 15

4.67 to 9.38 L/ha
(01.90 to 3.80 L/acre)

Apply in 200 to 900 L/ha (80 to 365 L/acre) of water

 N/A
  • Apply once per season.
  • Controls a variety of annual grasses and annual broadleaf weeds.
  • Not recommended for use on soils with over 10% organic matter.
  • There is a 12 month plant back restriction on crops not found on the label.
  • Use lower rate on light soils.
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours.

*PHI = Pre-harvest interval
BUFFERS – Refer to product label for buffer requirements, and consult the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Regulations and Safety (PDF).
PESTICIDE GROUP DETAILS – see the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Toxicity Table (PDF).

 

Pre-emergence

Pre-emergence: herbicide application rates
Product Rate PHI* Comments

Authority 480

(sulfentrazone)

Group 14

0.292 L/ha (0.118 L/acre)

Apply in 100 L/ha (40 L/acre) of water at 175 kPa

 19
  • Apply as a broadcast or banded treatment prior to transplanting.
  • When applied as a banded treatment, see label to calculate rate and volume, and apply only once per year.
  • Authority 480 requires adequate rainfall or irrigation to activate.
  • Do not use on coarse-textured soils classified as sand that have less than 1% organic matter.
  • Do not use on fine-textured soils with less than 1.5% organic matter.
  • Do not apply on soils with an organic matter content greater than 6%.
  • Do not use on soils with a pH of 7.8 or greater.
  • Early crop injury may be observed, but the final yield should not be affected.
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours.
  • Observe a plantback interval of 24 months for sweet corn and 16 months for winter wheat.
  • Controls redroot pigweed, lamb's quarters, Eastern black nightshade and common groundsel.

Chateau

(flumioxazin)

Group 14		 Coarse textured soil
(<5% organic matter):
140 g/ha
(57 g/acre)

Medium textured soil
(<5% organic matter):
210 g/ha
(85 g/acre)		 N/A
  • Controls redroot pigweed, green pigweed, common ragweed, lamb’s quarter, nightshade and dandelion.
  • Suppression only of green foxtail.
  • Apply with hooded or shielded equipment to row middles prior to transplanting.
  • Do not apply after transplanting, during or after bloom.
  • Apply ½ cm of water prior to transplanting if rainfall does not occur between application and transplanting in order to activate Chateau.
  • Control will be reduced if there is mechanical incorporation into soil or if emerged weeds are cultivated.
  • Crop should be grown on raised beds or plastic mulched beds that are 10 cm higher than the treated middle row. Mulched beds must be at least 60 cm wide.
  • The spray must remain between the raised beds with minimal contact with plastic mulch.
  • The spray must contact no more than the bottom 2.5 cm of the raised bed.
  • Do not apply more that 210 g/ha (85 g/acre) in a season.

*PHI = Pre-harvest interval
BUFFERS – Refer to product label for buffer requirements, and consult the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Regulations and Safety (PDF).
PESTICIDE GROUP DETAILS – see the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Toxicity Table (PDF).

 

Post-emergence

Post-emergence: herbicide application rates
Product Rate PHI* Comments

Dual II Magnum

(s-metalochlor)

Group 15		 1.15 to 1.25 L/ha
(460 to 500 mL/acre)

Apply in 150 L/ha (60 L/acre) of water at 200 to 300 kPa 		80
  • Controls nightshade and annual grasses.
  • Suppresses redroot pigweed.
  • Apply within 48 hours of transplanting but before weed emergence.
  • Risk of crop injury increases with early transplanting and soil temperatures below 10ºC.
  • Applications made more that 48 hours after transplanting may increase risk of foliar injury.
  • Do not tank mix with fluid fertilizers, oils, oil concentrates or surfactants.
  • Make only one application per year.
  • Rain is required within 10 days of application, or a shallow cultivation.
  • Do not apply to soils with less than 1% or more than 10% organic matter.
  • Do not enter treated areas for 12 hours.

Sandea

(halosulfuron)

Group 2
35 to 70 g/ha (14.2 to 28.3 g/acre)
 
Apply in 190 L/ha (75 L/acre) of water
 30
  • Use lower rate on lighter textured soils with low organic matter.
  • A sequential application may be necessary for some annual and perennial weeds.
  • Repeat using a 21 day interval.
  • Do not apply more than 140 g/ha (57 g/acre) of product per season.
  • Do not apply more than twice per season.
  • Wait to overhead sprinkler irrigate for 2 to 3 days after application.
  • If a timely soil cultivation is necessary to improve control, wait 7 to 10 days after treatment.
Post-Transplant:
  • Apply as a directed spray, 21 days after transplanting, or when the plants have reached a minimum of 15. 25 cm in height, but prior to flowering.
(Direct-seeded and Transplant) Row Middle/Furrow Applications:
  • Apply between the rows of the crop.
  • Avoid contact of the herbicide with the planted crop.
  • If plastic is used on the planted row, adjust equipment to keep the application off the plastic.
  • Reduce rate and spray volume in proportion to area actually sprayed.
Other comments:
  • Controls broadleaf weeds including ladysthumb, wild mustard, yellow nutsedge and redroot pigweed.
  • Suppresses horsetail, shepherd's purse and smartweed.
  • Will not control ALS-inhibitor resistant weeds.
  • Applications should be made to actively growing weeds at the heights defined in the "USE RATE GUIDE" section of the label.
  • Treat actively growing nutsedge plants at the 3 to 5 leaf stage.  Heavy infestations may require sequential applications.
  • May cause temporary stunting.
  • Observe plantback interval of 15 months for cabbage and carrots, 18 months for broccoli and cauliflower, 24 months for spinach and 36 months for beets.  See label for other crops listed.
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours.

Aim EC

(carfentrazone-ethyl)

Group 14

37 to 117 mL/ha
(15 to 47 mL/acre)

Apply in 100 L/ha (40 L/acre) of water

 1
  • Registered for transplanted peppers.
  • Controls annual weeds.
  • Must be applied using hooded sprayers to weeds between the rows of the emerged crop.
  • Use an adjuvant such as Agral 90 or Agral-Surf at 0.25% v/v (0.25 L/100 L of spray solution) or Merge at 1% v/v (1 L/100 L of spray solution).
  • Precaution: crop injury will occur when spray drift is allowed to come in contact with green stem tissue, leaves, blooms or fruit of the crop.
  • Apply only once per growing season.
  • Do not apply if used as a pre-plant burn-down in the same season.
  • Use the Vegetable Production Guide: Pest Management (PDF, 1.2 MB) for pre-plant burn-down precautions.

Poast Ultra

(sethoxydim)

Group 1

Note:  No longer produced

Annual grasses (incl. volunteer cereals):

320 mL/ha (130 mL/ac)

Annual grasses & quackgrass suppression:

470 mL/ha (190 mL/ac)

Quackgrass:

1.1 L/ha (445 mL/ac)		 30
  • Do not make more than 1 application per year.
  • For control of annual grasses and quackgrass suppression:  add Merge adjuvant using a rate of 0.5 - 1.0 L/ha (0.2 - 0.4 L/ac).
  • For control of quackgrass:  add Merge adjuvant using a rate of 1.0 - 2.0 l/ha (0.4 - 0.8 L/ac).
  • Annual bluegrass is not controlled.
  • Apply when annual weeds are in the 1 to 6 leaf stage and when quackgrass is in the 1 to 3 leaf stage.
  • Apply in 50 to 200 L/ha (20 to 80 L/acre) of water at 240 kPa pressure..
  •  See label for water volume and pressure when weed infestations or crop canopies are dense.
  • Observe a 30 day plantback interval for crops not listed.
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours.

*PHI = Pre-harvest interval
BUFFERS – Refer to product label for buffer requirements, and consult the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Regulations and Safety (PDF).
PESTICIDE GROUP DETAILS – see the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Toxicity Table (PDF).

 

Pepper insect management

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Aphids

These small, soft-bodied, sucking insects are found clustered on growing tips or on leaves and cause wilting and yellowing.

Chemical control of aphids
Product Rate PHI* Comments

Cygon 480/ Lagon 480 E

(dimethoate)

Group 1B

700 to 1000 mL/ha
(283 to 405 mL/acre)

 3
  • Apply as a groundspray using a closed cab.
  • Use sufficient water for good coverage.
  • Repeat using a 7 day interval.
  • Do not make more than 2 applications per season.
  • Toxic to bees.  Do not apply when bees are foraging in the treatment area.
  • Do not re-enter treated area for 12 hours. 

Pyganic

(pyrethrins)

Group 3


Used in organics

2.32 to 4.65 L/ha
(0.9 to 1.9 L/acre)

 0
  • Do not apply in greenhouses.
  • Final mix should be buffered to pH of 5.5 to 7.0
  • Apply using a 3 day interval.
  • Do not make more than 10 applications per growing season.
  • Do not apply more than 46.5 L/ha (18.8 L/ac) per growing season.
  • Do not wet plants to the point of run off.
  • Highly toxic to bees. Avoid use when bees are actively foraging. Best applied in early morning or evening.
  • Avoid applications when runoff is likely.
  • Sprayboom height must be 60 cm or less above the crop or ground.
  • Pyganic products are OMRI-Canada listed.  Check with your certification body before using in an organic operation.
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours.

Assail 70 WP

(acetamiprid)

Group 4
 56 to 86 grams/ha
(23 to 35 grams/acre)

Apply in 200 L/ha (80 L/acre) of water		 7
  • Thorough coverage is important.
  • Repeat at a 7 day interval.
  • Do not make more than 4 applications per season.
  • Do not apply more than 430 g/ha (174 g/acre) per season.
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours.

Actara 25WG

(thiamethoxam)

Group 4
 105 g/ha
(42 g/acre)

Apply in 100 L/ha (40 L/acre) of water		 1
  • Apply to the foliage.
  • Do not apply until petal fall. 
  • Maximum of 2 foliar applications per season.
  • Do not apply when bees are present.
  • Highly toxic to bees.  Do not apply or allow to drift onto blooming crops or weeds if bees are foraging in or adjacent to the treatment area.
  • If a cover crop is planted after potatoes are harvested, do not feed to livestock or harvest for food or feed.
  • Check label for PBI precautions.
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours.

Admire 240F

(imidacloprid)

Group 4
Transplant soil application:
7 to 12 mL per 100m of row
 
(see rate conversion chart of label for row spacing calculations)
 
 

N/A

 

 

 
  • Apply in-furrow below the eventual seed row in bedding operation 14 or fewer days before planting, or apply as a post-plant drench.
  • Do not apply more than once per season as a soil application.
  • Do not make any subsequent application of a group 4 insecticide.

Admire 240F

(imidacloprid)

Group 4

Foliar application:

200 mL/ha
(80 mL/acre)

 7
  • Apply after transplanting.
  • Repeat using a 5 day interval.
  • Do not make more than 2 applications per year.
  • Do not follow a soil application with a foliar application of Admire 240F.
  • Do not re-enter treated area for 24 hours.

Cormoran

(acetamiprid & novaluron)

Group 4 & 15

490 mL/ha
(200 mL/acre)

Apply in 200 L/ha (80 L/acre) of water

 7
  • Repeat using a 7 day application interval.
  • Do not apply more than 2.63 L/ha (1.06 L/acre) per season.
  • Toxic to bees.  Do not apply to flowering crops or weeds if bees are visiting the treatment area.
  • Toxic to certain beneficial insects.
  • If using more than 7 kg of product per day, to a maximum of 19 kg of product per day, see label for details on additional worker protection precautions.
  • Do not enter treated areas for 12 hours.

Beleaf

(flonicamid)

Group 9C
 120 to 160 g/ha
(50 to 60 g/acre)

Apply in 94 L/ha (38L/acre) of water. 		0
  • Repeat using a 7 day interval.
  • Do not apply more than 3 times per year.
  • Do not apply more than 480 g/ha (200 g/acre) of product per season.

Versys

(afidopyropen)

Group 9D

100 mL/ha

(40 mL/acre)

Apply in 100 L/ha (40 L/acre) of water		 0
  • Apply as a groundspray.
  • Do not apply in greenhouses.
  • Repeat using a 7 day interval.
  • Do not apply more than 4 times per year.
  • Ensure thorough coverage.
  • Do not apply more than 1.25 L/ha (506 mL/acre) per year.
  • During the crop blooming period, apply only in the evening when most bees are not foraging.
  • Observe a plantback interval of 30 days for crops not listed.
  • Do not re-enter for 12 hours.

Movento 240 SC

(spirotetramat)

Group 23
220 to 365 mL/ha
(90 to 150 mL/acre)

Apply in 300 L/ha (120 L/acre) of water
 1
  • Movento 240 SC should be used with one of the following adjuvants: non-ionic (eg. Agral 90 or Ag-Surf) or methylated seed oil (eg. Hasten).
  • Maximum allowed per crop season: 730 mL/ha (295 mL/acre).
  • Repeat at 7 day intervals.
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours.
  • Toxic to bees.  Do not apply during crop flowering period or when flowering weeds are present in the field.

Exirel

(cyantraniliprole)
 
Group 28
500 to 1500 mL/ha
(200 to 605 mL/acre)

Apply in 100 L/ha (40 L/acre) of water

1
  • Do not make more than 4 applications per growing season.
  • Repeat at 5 day intervals.
  • Use with an adjuvant such as Hasten NT at a rate of 0.25% v/v or MSO Concentrate with Leci-Tech at a rate of 0.5% v/v.
  • Do not apply more than 4.5 L/ha (1.8 L/acre) per season.
  • Toxic to bees and certain beneficial insects.  Apply early in the morning or late in the evening when bees are not active.
  • Note:  Do not tank-mix or apply in sequence with strobilurin-, copper- or captan-containing fungicides.
  • Observe a plantback interval of 30 days for legume vegetables, cereals, grass, crop group 1A (inlcuding beets, carrots, radish, parsnip, turnip) and crop group 2 (inlcuding beet greens and turnip greens). 
  • Observe a plantback interval of 1 year for crops not on this label.
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours.

*PHI = Pre-harvest interval
BUFFERS – Refer to product label for buffer requirements, and consult the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Regulations and Safety (PDF).
PESTICIDE GROUP DETAILS – see the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Toxicity Table (PDF).

OMRI-Canada = Organic Materials Review Institute of Canada.

 

Cutworms, loopers and other caterpillars

Cutworms are drab coloured, fleshy caterpillars up to 5 cm long which curl up when disturbed. Plants may be chewed off above or below ground, and may be damaged higher up by climbing cutworms.

Looper larvae are green caterpillars about half the size of cutworms. They eat holes in the leaves.

Measures taken to control cutworms will also control loopers and other caterpillars.

Chemical control of loopers and caterpillars
Product Rate PHI* Comments

Loopex

(Autorgrapha californica)
 2.5X1010 to 1X1011 PIBs/400L of water 0
  • Controls cabbage looper only.
  • For use in the greenhouse on plants grown for transplanting.
  • Dilute 50 to 200 mL of product in 400 of water.
  • Apply using high volume spray systems targeting small larvae.
  • To be effective, larvae must ingest foliage with deposits of the product.
  • Repeat every 7 to 14 days.
  • The pH of the solution should range between 5 and 8.
  • Loopex (PCP# 31791) is OMRI-Canada listed.  Check with your certification body before using on an organic operation.

Pyganic

(pyrethrins)

Group 3


Used in organics

 2.32 to 4.65 L/ha
(0.9 to 1.9 L/acre)		 0
  • Controls cabbage looper only.
  • Do not apply in greenhouses.
  • Final mix should be buffered to pH of 5.5 to 7.0
  • Apply using a 3 day interval.
  • Do not make more than 10 applications per growing season.
  • Do not apply more than 46.5 L/ha (18.8 L/ac) per growing season.
  • Do not wet plants to the point of run off.
  • Highly toxic to bees. Avoid use when bees are actively foraging. Best applied in early morning or evening.
  • Avoid applications when runoff is likely.
  • Sprayboom height must be 60 cm or less above the crop or ground.
  • Pyganic products are OMRI-Canada listed.  Check with your certification body before using in an organic operation.
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours.

Pounce 384 EC/ Perm-Up EC

(permethrin)

Group 3

180 to 390 mL/ha

(75 to 160 mL/acre)		 1
  • Controls surface feeding or climbing stage of cutworms only.
  • For seedlings (up to 5 leaves) or transplants, use 180 mL/ha (75 mL/acre).
  • Under dry soil conditions or on muck soil or when cutworms are large, apply at the rate of 295 to 390 mL/ha (119 mL to 160 mL/acre).
  • Repeat using a 7 day interval.
  • Do not make more than 4 applications per year.
  • Do not make more than 780 mL/ha (316 mL/acre) per season.
  • Do not disturb the soil surface for 5 days after treatment.
  • Make applications under warm, moist conditions in the evening or at night.
  • Observe a plantback interval of 60 days for food and feed crops not listed.
  • Toxic to bees. Avoid spraying when bees are foraging.
  • A vegetative filter strip is required between the field edge and adjacent downhill aquatic habitats.  See label for details.
  • Do not re-enter treated area for 12 hours.

Cormoran

(acetamiprid & novaluron)

Group 4 & 15

440 to 700 mL/ha
(180 to 285 mL/acre)

Apply in 200 L/ha (80 L/acre) of water

 7
  • For control of cabbage looper.
  • Repeat using a 7 day application interval.
  • Do not apply more than 2.63 L/ha (1.06 L/acre) per season.
  • Toxic to bees.  Do not apply to flowering crops or weeds if bees are visiting the treatment area.
  • Toxic to certain beneficial insects.
  • If using more than 7 kg of product per day, to a maximum of 19 kg of product per day, see label for details on additional worker protection precautions.
  • Do not enter treated areas for 12 hours.

Entrust 80

(spinosad)
 
Group 5
 
Used in organics
 109 g/ha
(44 g/acre)		 1
  • Repeat using 7 to 10 day intervals.
  • Do not apply more than 3 times per year.
  • Highly toxic to bees.  Do not apply if bees are visiting the area.  
  • Harmful to parasitoids and predatory mites.  Slightly harmful to foliage-dwelling predators.
  • Entrust products are OMRI-USA listed.  Check with your certification body before using in an organic operation.
  • Do not enter treated area until residues have dried.

Entrust SC

(spinosad)
 
Group 5
 
Used in organics
364 mL/ha
(147 mL/acre)
 1
  • Repeat using 7 to 10 day intervals.
  • Do not apply more than 3 times per year.
  • Highly toxic to bees.  Do not apply if bees are visiting the area.  
  • Harmful to parasitoids and predatory mites.  Slightly harmful to foliage-dwelling predators.
  • Entrust SC (PCP# 30382) is OMRI-Canada listed.  Check with your certification body before using in an organic operation.
  • Do not enter treated area until residues have dried.

Success

(spinosad)
 
Group 5
 182 mL/ha
(74 mL/acre)		 1
  • Repeat at 7 to 10 day intervals.
  • Do not apply more than 3 times per year.
  • Highly toxic to bees.  Do not apply if bees are visiting the area.  
  • Harmful to parasitoids and predatory mites.  Slightly harmful to foliage-dwelling predators.
  • Do not enter treated area until residues have dried.

Scorpio Ant and Insect Bait

(spinosad)

Group 5

 25 to 50 kg/ha
(10.1 to 20.2 kg/acre)		 1
  • Controls black cutworm only.
  • Does not control loopers or caterpillars.
  • Apply using a spreader suitable for granulars or by hand.
  • Scatter the bait on the soil around seedlings.
  • Do not place in piles
  • Repeat after heavy rain or irrigation.
  • Repeat as the bait is consumed or after 4 weeks.
  • Do not apply more than 3 times per season.
  • Works better when soil is moist but with little or no standing water.
  • Toxic to bees and certain beneficials.

Delegate WG

(spinetoram)

Group 5
 140 to 200 g/ha
(60 to 80 g/acre)		 1
  • Controls cabbage loopers only.
  • For optimal performance, final solution pH should be in the range of 6 to 8.
  • Apply at egg hatch or to small larvae.
  • Maximum of 3 applications per year.
  • Toxic to bees. Avoid spraying when bees are foraging.

XenTari WG

(Bacillus thuringiensis, subsp. aizawai)
 
Group 11
 
Used in organics

500 to 1000 g/ha
(200 to 400 g/acre)

Use up to 500 to 1000 L/ha (200 to 400 L/acre) of water.

 0
  • Controls cabbage looper only.
  • Treat larvae at the early instar stage.
  • Repeat at 5 to 7 day intervals.
  • Use enough water to ensure full coverage but not to the point of run off.
  • Larvae must be actively feeding on treated, exposed plant surfaces.
  • Apply in the evening or on a cloudy day.
  • Do not allow spray mixture to stand in the tank for more than 12 hours.
  • When used in the greenhouse, do not re-enter treated area until the spray is dried.
  • Xen Tari products are OMRI-USA listed.  Check with your certification body before using in an organic operation.

Exirel

(cyantraniliprole)
 
Group 28
 250 to 500 mL/ha
(100 to 200 mL/acre)

Apply in 100 L/ha (40 L/acre) of water

1
  • Controls cabbage loopers only.
  • Do not make more than 4 applications per growing season.
  • Repeat at 7 day intervals.
  • Do not apply more than 4.5 L/ha (1.8 L/acre) per season.
  • Toxic to bees and certain beneficial insects.  Apply early in the morning or late in the evening when bees are not active.
  • Note:  Do not tank-mix or apply in sequence with strobilurin-, copper- or captan-containing fungicides.
  • Observe a plantback interval of 30 days for legume vegetables, cereals, grass, crop group 1A (inlcuding beets, carrots, radish, parsnip, turnip) and crop group 2 (inlcuding beet greens and turnip greens). 
  • Observe a plantback interval of 1 year for crops not on this label.
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours.
  • Also controls cutworm.  See label for rate and directions.

Harvanta 50SL

(cyclaniliprole)

Group 28

0.8 to 1.2 L/ha
(324 to 485 mL/acre)

Apply in 200 to 1000 L/ha (80 to 400 L/acre) of water		 1
  • Controls cabbage looper only.
  • Do not use in the greenhouse.
  • Repeat using a 5 day interval.
  • Do not make more than 4 applications per crop per year.
  • Do not apply more than 4.8 L/ha (1.9 L/acre) per year.
  • Toxic to bees.
  • Observe a plantback interval of 30 days for crops not listed.
  • Do not re-enter treated area for 12 hours.

Coragen

(chlorantraniliprole)

Group 28

250 mL/ha
(100 mL/acre)

Apply in 100 L/ha (40 L/acre) of water

 1
  • Controls loopers only.
  • Do not apply for a minimum of 60 days following an in-furrow or soil application or planting of seed pieces treated with any Group 28 insecticide.
  • Repeat at 5 day intervals.
  • Do not make more than 4 applications per season.
  • Do not make more than 2 successive applications per generation of loopers.  The following application must be with an effective non-Group 28 insecticide.
  • Do not apply more than 1.125 L/ha (455 mL/ac) per season.
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours.

*PHI = Pre-harvest interval
BUFFERS – Refer to product label for buffer requirements, and consult the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Regulations and Safety (PDF).
PESTICIDE GROUP DETAILS – see the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Toxicity Table (PDF).

OMRI-USA = Organic Materials Review Institute of USA
OMRI-Canada = Organic Materials Review Institute of Canada
 

Flea beetles

Small, black, shiny jumping beetles eat holes in leaves, giving a shot-holed appearance. Young plants may be destroyed.

Control

When using a control spray, thorough coverage of the upper and lower surfaces of the leaves is essential. 

Chemical control of flea beetles
Product Rate PHI* Comments

Minecto Pro

(abamectin/ cyantraniliprole)

Group 6 & 28

385 to 741 mL/ha

(156 to 300 mL/acre)

Apply in 200 L/ha (80 L/acre) of water 		7
  • Use with 0.1 to 0.5% v/v non-ionic surfactant in the spray mixture.
  • Ensure thorough coverage.
  • Repeat using a 7 day interval.
  • Do not apply more than 3 times per season using the high rate.
  • Do not apply more than 5 times per season using the low rate.
  • Do not apply more than 2.223 L/ha (900 mL/acre) per season.
  • Do not apply for 60 days following an in-furrow or soil application or seed piece treatment with any group 28 insecticide.
  • Check label for plantback intervals.
  • Do not re-enter for 12 hours.

*PHI = Pre-harvest interval
BUFFERS – Refer to product label for buffer requirements, and consult the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Regulations and Safety (PDF).
PESTICIDE GROUP DETAILS – see the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Toxicity Table (PDF).

 

Colorado potato beetle

Chemical control of Colorado potato beetles
Product Rate PHI* Comments

Assail 70 WP

(acetamiprid)

Group 4
 40 to 80 grams/ha
(16 to 32 grams/acre)

Apply in 200 L/ha (80 L/acre) of water		 7
  • Thorough coverage is important.
  • Repeat at a 7 day interval.
  • Do not make more than 4 applications per season.
  • Do not apply more than 430 g/ha (174 g/acre) per season.
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours.

Admire 240F

(imidacloprid)

Group 4
Transplant soil application:
7 to 12 mL per 100m of row
 
(see rate conversion chart of label for row spacing calculations)
 N/A
  • Apply in-furrow below the eventual seed row in bedding operation 14 or fewer days before planting, or apply as a post-plant drench.
  • Do not apply more than once per season as a soil application.
  • Do not make any subsequent application of a group 4 insecticide.

Admire 240F

(imidacloprid)

Group 4

Foliar application:

200 mL/ha
(80 mL/acre)

 7
  • Apply after transplanting.
  • Repeat using a 5 day interval.
  • Do not make more than 2 applications per year.
  • Do not follow a soil application with a foliar application of Admire 240F.
  • Do not re-enter treated area for 24 hours.

Cormoran

(acetamiprid & novaluron)

Group 4 & 15

440 to 700 mL/ha
(180 to 285 mL/acre)

Apply in 200 L/ha (80 L/acre) of water

 7
  • Repeat using a 7 day application interval.
  • Do not apply more than twice to a single generation and do not apply to successive generations.
  • Do not apply more than 2.63 L/ha (1.06 L/acre) per season.
  • Toxic to bees.  Do not apply to flowering crops or weeds if bees are visiting the treatment area.
  • Toxic to certain beneficial insects.
  • Do not enter treated areas for 12 hours.

Entrust 80

(spinosad)
 
Group 5
 
Used in organics
 50 g/ha
(20 g/acre)		 1
  • Repeat using 7 to 10 day intervals.
  • Do not apply more than 3 times per year.
  • Highly toxic to bees.  Do not apply if bees are visiting the area.  
  • Harmful to parasitoids and predatory mites.  Slightly harmful to foliage-dwelling predators.
  • Entrust products are OMRI-USA listed.  Check with your certification body before using in an organic operation.
  • Do not re-enter treated area for 12 hours.

Entrust SC

(spinosad)
 
Group 5
 
Used in organics
 167 mL/ha
(68 mL/acre)		 1
  • Repeat using 7 to 10 day intervals.
  • Do not apply more than 3 times per year.
  • Highly toxic to bees.  Do not apply if bees are visiting the area.  
  • Harmful to parasitoids and predatory mites.  Slightly harmful to foliage-dwelling predators.
  • Entrust SC (PCP# 30382) is OMRI-Canada listed.  Check with your certification body before using in an organic operation.
  • Do not re-enter treated area for 12 hours.

Success

(spinosad)
 
Group 5
 83 mL/ha
(34 mL/acre)		 1
  • Repeat at 7 to 10 day intervals.
  • Do not apply more than 3 times per year.
  • Highly toxic to bees.  Do not apply if bees are visiting the area.  
  • Harmful to parasitoids and predatory mites.  Slightly harmful to foliage-dwelling predators.
  • Do not re-enter treated area for 12 hours.

Minecto Pro

(abamectin/ cyantraniliprole)

Group 6 & 28

556 to 670 mL/ha

(225 to 271 mL/acre)

Apply in 200 L/ha (80 L/acre) of water 		7
  • Use with 0.1 to 0.5% v/v non-ionic surfactant in the spray mixture.
  • Make 1st application after approximately 50% of the egg masses have hatched and larvae are present.
  • If 2 applications are necessary, limit them to a single CPB generation per crop.
  • Ensure thorough coverage.
  • Repeat using a 7 day interval.
  • Do not apply more than 3 times per season using the high rate.
  • Do not apply more than 5 times per season using the low rate.
  • Do not apply more than 2.223 L/ha (900 mL/acre) per season.
  • Do not apply for 60 days following an in-furrow or soil application or seed piece treatment with any group 28 insecticide.
  • Check label for plantback intervals.
  • Do not re-enter for 12 hours.

Coragen

(chlorantraniliprole)

Group 28
 250 to 375 mL/ha
(100 to 150 mL/acre)

Apply in 100L/ha (40L/acre) of water 		1
  • Do not apply for CPB control if any Group 28 insecticide was used at planting as an in-furrow, soil or seed treatment.
  • Repeat at 5 day intervals.
  • Do not make more than 4 applications per season.
  • Do not make more than 2 successive applications per generation of loopers.  The following application must be with an effective non-Group 28 insecticide.
  • Do not apply more than 1.125 L/ha (455 mL/ac) per season.
  • For control of black cutworm, use the lower rate. 
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours.

Exirel

(cyantraniliprole)
 
Group 28
 750 to 1000 mL/ha
(305 to 405 mL/acre)

Apply in 100 L/ha (40 L/acre) of water

1
  • Do not make more than 4 applications per growing season.
  • Repeat at 7 to 14 day intervals.
  • Do not apply more than 4.5 L/ha (1.8 L/acre) per season.
  • Toxic to bees and certain beneficial insects.  Apply early in the morning or late in the evening when bees are not active.
  • Note:  Do not tank-mix or apply in sequence with strobilurin-, copper- or captan-containing fungicides.
  • Observe a plantback interval of 30 days for legume vegetables, cereals, grass, crop group 1A (inlcuding beets, carrots, radish, parsnip, turnip) and crop group 2 (inlcuding beet greens and turnip greens). 
  • Observe a plantback interval of 1 year for crops not on this label.
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours.

Harvanta 50SL

(cyclaniliprole)

Group 28

0.8 to 1.2 L/ha
(324 to 485 mL/acre)

Apply in 200 to 1000 L/ha (80 to 400 L/acre) of water		 1
  • Do not use in the greenhouse.
  • Repeat using a 5 day interval.
  • Do not make more than 4 applications per crop per year.
  • Do not apply more than 4.8 L/ha (1.9 L/acre) per year.
  • Toxic to bees.
  • Observe a plantback interval of 30 days for crops not listed.
  • Do not re-enter treated area for 12 hours.

*PHI = Pre-harvest interval
BUFFERS – Refer to product label for buffer requirements, and consult the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Regulations and Safety (PDF).
PESTICIDE GROUP DETAILS – see the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Toxicity Table (PDF).

OMRI-Canada = Organic Materials Review Institute of Canada

 

Pepper disease management

Expand All | Collapse All
 

Bacterial spot (Xanthomonas)

This seed-borne, bacterial disease causes water-soaked leafspots which eventually turn tan with a dark brown outline. Fruit has raised, brown, scabby spots up to 4 mm in diameter. Severe disease can result in defoliation. Symptom development is most rapid at temperatures above 18°C and relative humidity above 85%.

Control

  1. Use disease-free, hot-water-treated or disinfected seed.
    • Use hot-water-treated seed as described in the Vegetable Production Guide: Planting (PDF). Seed treatment with diluted hydrochloric acid or household bleach diluted 1:10 in clean tapwater has also been used.
    • Disinfect used seedling trays prior to use as described in the Vegetable Production Guide: Planting (PDF).
    • Use sterilized soil in flats and seed-beds.
    • Destroy old vines immediately after harvest.
    • Follow a two or three year crop rotation.
  2. As the bacteria are spread by splashing water, seedlings grown in an ebb and flow watering system or field plants grown under drip irrigation are less likely to become infected than those grown under sprinkler irrigation.
  3. Where a spray program is deemed necessary in seedling production, the lowest recommended rate of fixed copper tank-mixed with the lowest recommended rate of mancozeb on a 3 – 5 day schedule is suggested.
  4. When disease threatens in the field, use the products in the table below.
  5. Plow crop refuse under at the end of the season to encourage tissue breakdown.

Chemical control of bacterial spot
Product Rate PHI* Comments

Kocide 2000 - 0

(copper hydroxide)
 
Group M
 
Used in organics
 2.52 kg/ha
(1.0 kg/acre)		 2
  • Apply using a 7 to 14 day interval.
  • Maximum 10 applications per season.
  • For treatment of greenhouse seedlings for transplant, check label for rate, application intervals, maximum applications and PHI.
  • Kocide 2000 - 0 (PCP# 33441) is OMRI-Canada listed.  Check with your certification body before using in an organic operation.
  • Do not re-enter treated area for 48 hours.

Parasol F

Group M1

(copper hydroxide)

 2.3 to 3.12 L/ha
(0.9 to 1.25 L/acre)		 2
  • Apply using a 3 to 14 day interval.
  • Maximum 10 applications per season.
  • Do not re-enter treated area for 48 hours.

Cueva

(copper octanoate)

Group M1

Used in organics

 Use a 0.5% to 2% solution at 470 to 940 L/ha (190 to 380 L/acre) 1
  • For a 0.5% solution, mix 1 part Cueva to 200 parts water.
  • For a 2% solution, mix 1 part Cueva to 50 parts water.
  • Repeat at 7 to 10 day intervals.
  • Repeat at 5 to 7 day intervals following heavy rain or when disease pressure is high.
  • Do not make more than 15 applications per year.
  • Time applications so that 12 hours of dry weather follow application.
  • Cueva products (PCP# 31825) are OMRI-Canada listed.  Check with your certification body before using in an organic operation.
  • Do not re-enter treated area for 4 hours.

Serenade Opti

(Bacillus subtilis)
 
Used in organics
 0.6 to 1.7 kg/ha
(240 to 690 g/acre)		 0
  • Suppression only.
  • Repeat at 7 to 10 day intervals.
  • Serenade Opti (PCP# 31666) is OMRI-Canada listed.  Check with your certification body before using in an organic operation.

LifeGard WG

(Bacillus mycoides isolate J)

Group P 06

Used in organics

70 to 333 g/ha
(28 to 135 g/acre)

Apply in 210 to 1000 L/ha (85 to 405 L/acre) of water		 0
  • Suppression only.
  • Reduces the occurrence and severity of plant disease by inducing the plant’s natural defense mechanisms.
  • Apply as a foliar spray to healthy, active growing plants preventively before infection or appearance of disease symptoms.
  • For transplants:  begin applications immediately before or after transplanting.
  • Repeat using a 7 day interval.
  • Do not apply more than 333 g/ha (135 g/acre).
  • Initial inducement of plant defense response occurs soon after application, but 3 to 5 days are required to attain maximum level of protection.
  • Do not allow the mixture to stand overnight in the spray tank.
  • Toxic to bees.  If treatment must be made during crop blooming period, apply in the evening when most bees are not foraging.
  • LifeGard WG (PCP# 32526) is OMRI-USA listed.  Check with your certification body before using in an organic operation.
  • Do not re-enter treated area for 4 hours.

Kasumin 2L

(hydocholoride hydrate)

Group 24 bactericide

 1.2 L/ha
(0.5 L/acre)		 1
  • Suppression only.
  • Apply at 7 day intervals.
  • Do not make more than 3 applications per season.
  • Do not apply more than 3.6 L/Ha (1.5 L/acre) per year.
  • Do not make more than 2 consecutive applications.
  • For resistance management purposes, do not apply on greenhouse transplants.
  • May be tankmixed with Kocide 2000.  Follow the most stringent label precautionary measures for mixing, loading and applying stated on both product labels.

*PHI = Pre-harvest interval
BUFFERS – Refer to product label for buffer requirements, and consult the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Regulations and Safety (PDF).
PESTICIDE GROUP DETAILS – see the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Toxicity Table (PDF).

OMRI-Canada = Organic Materials Review Institute of Canada

OMRI-USA = Organic Materials Review Institute of USA

 

Grey mould (botrytis rot)

Under wet conditions, grey mould colonizes blossoms, dead leaves, injured stems, etc and quickly spreads to ripening fruits, infecting even the smallest cracks in the skin. Although varieties differ in the extent of damage, the disease can become severe under prolonged conditions of high humidity. In the coastal area, it is not uncommon to lose 50% of the late September/early October harvest to gray mould.

Control

Plant in wide-open areas with good air circulation. Avoid sprinkler irrigation in late summer on the coast and avoid high rates of nitrogen which promote lush foliage. Excessive nitrogen also favours the development of blossom end rot (see Other problems section of Peppers disease management).

Chemical control of botrytis rot
Product Rate PHI* Comments

Oxidate 2.0

(hydrogen peroxide & peroxyacetic acid)

Used in organics

 Dilute 1.0 L product in 100 L water (1.0% v:v) 0
  • Suppression only.
  • Use a non-ionic surfactant at 0.10% to 0.125% v/v (0.1 L to 0.125 L per 100 L of spray solution).
  • Repeat using a 7 day application interval.
  • Good coverage is required.
  • Do not apply more than 8 times per season.
  • Do not apply more than 93.5 L/ha (37.8 L/acre) per application.
  • Toxic to bees.  Do not apply if bees are visiting the treatment area.
  • Toxic to certain beneficial insects.
  • Oxidate 2.0 (PCP# 32907) is OMRI-Canada listed.  Check with your certification body before using in an organic operation.
  • Do not re-enter treated area for 4 hours or until sprays have dried.

Serenade Opti

(Bacillus subtilis)
 
Used in organics
 1.7 to 3.3 kg/ha
(690 to 1300 g/acre)		 0
  • Suppression only.
  • Serenade Opti (PCP# 31666) is OMRI-Canada listed.  Check with your certification body before using in an organic operation.

Double Nickel 55

(Bacillus amyloliqufaciens strain D747)

Group BM 02

Used in organics

Note: no longer available

1.25 to 3.6 kg/ha
(505 to 1470 g/acre)

For smaller plants or low disease pressure:
0.9 to 1.25 kg/ha (360 to 510 g/acre)

 0
  • Suppression only.
  • Apply as a foliar spray from flowering to fruit maturity.
  • Repeat at 3 to 10 day intervals.
  • Do not use highly alkaline or highly acidic water to mix sprays.
  • If necessary, use a buffering agent to maintain a pH of 6 to 8 in the water of the tank.
  • Double Nickel 55  (PCP# 31888) is OMRI-USA listed.  Check with your certification body before using in an organic operation.  
  • Do not re-enter treated area for 4 hours.

Double Nickel LC

(Bacillus amyloliqufaciens strain D747)

Group BM 02

Used in organics

6.25 to 18 L/ha
(2.5 to 7.3 L/acre)

For smaller plants or low disease pressure:
4.5 to 5 L/ha (1.8 to 2.0 L/acre)

 0
  • Suppression only.
  • Apply as a foliar spray from flowering to fruit maturity.
  • Repeat at 3 to 10 day intervals.
  • Do not use highly alkaline or highly acidic water to mix sprays.
  • If necessary, use a buffering agent to maintain a pH of 6 to 8 in the water of the tank. 
  • Double Nickel LC (PCP# 31887) is OMRI-USA listed.  Check with your certification body before using in an organic operation.
  • Do not re-enter treated area for 4 hours.

Miravis Duo

(pydiflumetofen & difenoconazole)

Group 7 & 3

1 L/ha (405 mL/ac)

Apply in 150 L/ha (60 L/ac) of water

 0
  • Suppression only.
  • Do no use in the greenhouse.
  • Repeat using a 7 to 14 day interval.
  • Do not make more than 2 consecutive applications before switching to a non-Group 7 & 3 fungicide.
  • Do not apply more than 2.0 L/ha (405 mL/ac) per season.
  • See label for details on plantback interval.
  • Do not re-enter treated area for 12 hours.

Lance WDG

(boscalid)

Group 7

 420 g/ha
(168 g/acre)

Apply in at least 100 L/ha (40 L/acre) of water		 0
  • Begin application prior to disease development.
  • Make a second application 7 to 10 days later.
  • Do not apply more than 5 times per season.
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours or until residues have dried.
  • For crops not on the label, observe a plant back interval of 14 days.

Cantus WDG

(boscalid)

Group 7

 420 g/ha
(168 g/acre)

Apply in at least 100 L/ha (40 L/acre) of water 		0
  • Begin application prior to disease development.
  • Make a second application 7 to 10 days later.
  • Do not apply more than 5 times per season.
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours or until residues have dried.
  • For crops not on the label, observe a plant back interval of 14 days.

Fontelis

(penthiopyrad)

Group 7

 1.25 to 1.75 L/ha
(505 to 710 mL/acre)

Apply in 110 L/ha (45 L/acre) of water		 0
  • Repeat at 7 to 10 day intervals.
  • Do not apply more than 5.25 L/ha (2.2 L/acre) per season.
  • Do not make more than 2 sequential applications before switching to a fungicide with a different mode of action.
  • Do not re-enter for 12 hours.

Switch 62.5 WG

(cyprodinil & fludioxonil)

Group 9 & 12

 775 to 975 g/ha
(314 to 395 g /acre)

Apply in 200 L/ha (80 L/acre) of water		 0
  • Do not make more than 3 applications per year.
  • Repeat applications at 7 to 10 day intervals.
  • Do not make more than 2 sequential applications of Switch or other fungicides in the same group (9 or 12) in a season.
  • Do not apply more than 2.9 kg/ha (1.1 kg/acre) of product per year.
  • Observe a 30 day plantback interval for crops not listed.
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours.

Diplomat 5SC

(polyoxin D zinc salt)
 
Group 19
463 to 926 mL/ha
(187 to 375 mL/acre)
 0
  • Suppression only.
  • Repeat using a 7 to 10 day interval.
  • Do not apply more than 2.8 L/ha (1.1 L/acre) per season or 12 months.
  • May be used in the greenhouse.

*PHI = Pre-harvest interval
BUFFERS – Refer to product label for buffer requirements, and consult the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Regulations and Safety (PDF).
PESTICIDE GROUP DETAILS – see the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Toxicity Table (PDF).

OMRI-Canada = Organic Materials Review Institute of Canada.
OMRI-USA = Organic Materials Review Institute of USA.
 

Mosaic virus

Typical symptoms of mosaic virus diseases are pale mottling of leaves and, less frequently, fruit. Tobacco mosaic virus is the most common but cucumber mosaic virus can also infect peppers.

Control (tobacco or common mosaic)

  • Destroy virus of tobacco mosaic on the seed coat a day or two before planting by soaking the seed in a solution of tri-sodium phosphate at 100 g/ L of water for 20 minutes. This treatment is only needed if seed has not previously been treated with hot water. Spread out to dry in a warm room. Use seed treated with Thiram. Rogue out affected plants if any disease appears.
  • Tobacco mosaic can persist many months on clothing stored in the dark, but not if hung in the light. Contaminated clothing can be a source of disease for a new crop, and only clean clothes should be worn while working with plants, especially young ones.
  • Pepper debris overwintering in the soil is the main source of tobacco mosaic in new crops, so old vines should be removed immediately after harvesting is completed. Steaming soil in the greenhouse will control mosaic, but chemical sterilants will not.
  • Handling is the most frequent way of spreading tobacco mosaic throughout a crop. Wash hands in a solution of tri-sodium phosphate at 33 g/ L of water and then scrub with soap and water after smoking or handling a diseased crop. Because tobacco may carry this disease, avoid smoking in the greenhouse area. Infection on tools is best removed by either boiling them in water or by steam sterilizing them. Dipping tools in tri-sodium phosphate solution at 33 g/L of water can be used but is less effective.

It has been found that the spread of mosaic from diseased to healthy plants and infection from outside sources can be reduced sharply by the use of a milk spray.

From 4 to 24 hours before seedlings are to be handled (pricked out), they should be watered thoroughly, then sprayed with natural whole or skimmed milk or reconstituted powdered milk, 3.0 L/10 L of water. The milk is allowed to dry on the leaves. It gives effective protection for 24 hours. Twenty-two litres of milk will spray approximately enough plants to set out in 1 hectare.

A second milk spray should be applied to the plants just prior to transplanting.

 

Pepper mild mottle virus

Pepper mild mottle virus is mainly a disease of greenhouse peppers. It infects all species of peppers and many other species in the Solanaceae (nightshade) family, but not tomato. The most noticeable symptoms occur on the fruit. Infected fruits have distinct bumps, pointed ends and sunken brown areas. Any foliar symptoms that may occur can easily be mistaken for other disorders and it is difficult to detect infected plants until they bear fruit. There is no insect vector for this virus. It can be seed-borne, and spreads mechanically through handling of the crop.

Control

  • Use high quality hot-water-treated seed.
  • Follow 1 to 2 year crop rotations.
  • Carry out good sanitation practices for workers when handling crop, tools and equipment.
  • Contact the Plant Diagnostic Lab if you suspect your plants have pepper mild mottle virus.
 

Impatiens necrotic spot virus

This virus is occasionally seen in field peppers. It is closely related to tomato spotted wilt virus, which is more common on tomato. Both viruses are spread by thrips. Infection often occurs on seedlings in the greenhouse which are grown near infected flower crops. Symptoms include stunting and ring-spots on leaves and fruit.

No marketable fruit is produced. Infected plants should be removed from the field and insecticides applied for control of thrips. For further information, refer to the Vegetable Production Guide: Pest Management (PDF, 1.2 MB).

 

Verticillium wilt

The causal fungus is soil or seed-borne. First, lower leaves wilt and drop, then petioles turn yellow and wither and, finally, the entire plant may wilt. It is usually worse on light, sandy soils in the Interior, and where root lesion nematodes are also present.

Control

  • Disinfect used seedling trays prior to use. Follow the instructions in the Vegetable Production Guide: Planting (PDF).
  • Grow seedlings in soil-less mix or sterilized soil.
  • Use seed treated with Thiram seed protectant.
  • Follow a four-year rotation, avoiding crops susceptible to verticillium wilt (e.g. potatoes, tomatoes, melons and eggplant).
  • Choose a soil that is well-drained and not underlain by hardpan.
  • Do not plant out until soil temperature has reached 14°C or, if possible, 16°C.
  • Avoid overwatering and maintain high humus content in the soil.
  • Select resistant varieties.
 

Root rot

RootShield WP (Trichoderma harzianum Rifai strain KRL-AG2) is a biological fungicide for the suppression of root rot in greenhouse vegetable transplants.  When applied to transplants, greenhouse planting mix or soil, the product grows into plant roots as they develop to protect roots against pythium, rhizoctonia and fusarium. 

Suppression

  • Suspend RootShield WP using a spray volume of 30 to 45 g/100 L and apply at the rate of 55 to 110 g per cubic metre (loose) of greenhouse potting mix, soil or planting beds. 
  • Apply using hand-held backpack or ground spray equipment. 
  • Becomes active when soil temperatures are above 10 degrees C and is not effective while soils remain cold.
  • More effective at suppression of root rot in neutral or acidic soils.  
  • Should be used within 12 months of the date of manufacture.  
  • Contains the allergens wheat and sulfites.

RootShield WP is used in organics.  It is OMRI-USA listed.  OMRI-USA = Organic Materials Review Institute of USA.  Check with your certification body before using in an organic operation.

Chemical control of pythium damping - off and root rot (Pythium spp.)
Product Rate PHI* Comments

Torrent 400 SC

(cyazofamid)
 
Group 21
 30 mL/100L water 60
  • Registered on greenhouse pepper transplants.
  • Apply once in the greenhouse as a soil drench to thoroughly wet the growing medium immediately after seeding.
  • Do not use a surfactant.
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours.

*PHI = Pre-harvest interval
BUFFERS – Refer to product label for buffer requirements, and consult the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Regulations and Safety (PDF).
PESTICIDE GROUP DETAILS – see the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Toxicity Table (PDF).

 

Powdery mildew

Chemical control of powdery mildew
Product Rate PHI* Comments

MilStop

(potassium bicarbonate)

Used in organics
 2.8 to 5.6 kg/ha
(1.13 to 2.27 kg/acre)

Apply in 1000 L/ha (400 L/acre) of water		 0
  • Repeat using a 7 day interval.
  • Do not apply more than 10 times per season.
  • Milstop products (PCP# 28095) are OMRI-Canada listed.  Check with your certification body before using in an organic operation.

Actinovate SP

(Streptomyces lydicus)

Used in organics
 425 g/ha
(170 g/acre)

Apply in 1100 L/ha (445 L/acre) of water 		0
  • Suppression only.
  • Make the 1st application at transplant, and repeat at 7 to 14 day intervals.
  • Use prepared sprays within 4 hours of preparation.
  • Actinovate products are OMRI-USA listed.  Check with your certification body before using in an organic operation.

Serenade Opti

(Bacillus subtilis)
 
Used in organics.
 1.7 to 3.3 kg/ha
(690 to 1300 g/acre)		 0
  • Suppression only.
  • Repeat at 7 to 10 day intervals.
  • Serenade Opti (PCP# 31666) is OMRI-Canada listed.  Check with your certification body before using in an organic operation.

Timorex Gold

(tea tree oil)
 
Used in organics.
1.0 to 1.5 L/ha
(400 mL to 600 mL/acre)
 
Apply in 400 to 800 L/ha (160 to 320 L/acre) of water.
 2
  • Apply as a foliar spray until runoff.
  • Repeat using a 7 to 14 day interval.
  • Do not apply with captan or sulphur.
  • Timorex Gold (PCP# 30910) is OMRI-Canada listed.  Check with your certification body before using in an organic operation.

Purespray Green Spray Oil 13E

(mineral oil)
 
Used in organics
 10 L of product in 1000 L of water (1% solution) N/A
  • Suppression only.
  • Use up to 1000 L/ha (400 L/acre) spray volume to ensure thorough coverage.
  • Repeat at 7 to 14 day intervals.
  • Do not make more than 8 summer spray applications per growing season.
  • For first use on a new variety, test spray a small field area to check for plant tolerance prior to adoption as a general field practice.
  • Before or after an application of Purespray Green Spray Oil 13E, a period of 14 days must elapse before permethrin (Pounce/ Perm-Up C) is used.
  • Do not apply during periods of drought, when plants exhibit moisture stress. 
  • Do not enter treated area for 12 hours.
  • Purespray Green Spray Oil 13E (PCP# 27666) is OMRI-Canada listed.  Check with your certification body before using in an organic operation.

Aprovia Top

(benzovindiflupyr/

difenoconazole)

Group 7 & 3

643 to 967 mL/ha           (260 to 391 mL/acre)

Apply in 150 L/ha (60 L/acre) of water

 1
  • Apply as a broadcast foliar spray starting at first fruit set.
  • Repeat using a 7 day interval.
  • Do not apply more than 3.9 L/ha (1.6 L/acre) per season.
  • Observe a plantback interval of 60 days for sweet corn and 6 months for crops not listed.
  • Do not re-enter treated area for 12 hours.

Miravis Duo

(pydiflumetofen & difenoconazole)

 

Group 7 & 3

1 L/ha (405 mL/ac)

 

Apply in 150 L/ha (60 L/ac) of water		 0
  • Do no use in the greenhouse.
  • Repeat using a 7 to 14 day interval.
  • Do not make more than 2 consecutive applications before switching to a non-Group 7 & 3 fungicide.
  • Do not apply more than 2.0 L/ha (405 mL/ac) per season.
  • See label for details on plantback interval.
  • Do not re-enter treated area for 12 hours.

Aprovia

(benzovindiflupyr)

Group 7

500 to 750 mL/ha           (200 to 300 mL/acre)

Apply in 150 L/ha (60 L/acre of water)

 1
  • Apply as a broadcast foliar spray starting at first fruit set.
  • Repeat using a 7 day interval.
  • Do not apply more than 3 L/ha (1.2 L/acre) per season.
  • Observe a plantback interval of 6 months for crops not listed.
  • Do not re-enter treated area for 12 hours.

Quadris Top

(azoxystrobin/ difenoconazole)

Group 11 & 3

625 mL/ha
(253 mL/acre)

Apply in at least 150 L/ha (60 L/acre) of water.

 1
  • Apply 21 days after transplanting or 35 days after seeding.
  • Repeat at 7 to 10 day intervals
  • Do not apply more than 3 times per season.
  • Do not re-enter treated areas for 12 hours.
  • Observe a plant back interval of 60 days for crops not listed on this label or the Inspire label. 

Elatus

(benzovindiflupyr/

azoxystrobin)

Group 11 & 7

417 g/ha (169 g/acre)

Apply in 150 L/ha (60 L/acre) of water.

 1
  • Begin broadcast foliar applications at first fruit set.
  • Do not apply until after 21 days after transplanting.
  • Repeat at 7 day intervals.
  • Do not apply more than 1.2 kg/ha (0.5 kg/acre) per season.
  • Observe a plantback interval of 6 months for crops not listed.

Vivando SC

(metrafenone)

Group U8

 0.75 to 1.12 L/ha (300 to 450 mL/acre) 7
  • Repeat at 7 to 14 day intervals.
  • Do not make more than 3 applications per season.
  • Do not apply more than 3.36 L/ha per season.
  • Avoid using Vivando SC if it has been used on the area during the previous season. 
  • Do not re-enter treated area for 12 hours.

*PHI = Pre-harvest interval
BUFFERS – Refer to product label for buffer requirements, and consult the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Regulations and Safety (PDF).
PESTICIDE GROUP DETAILS – see the Vegetable Production Guide: Pesticide Toxicity Table (PDF).

OMRI-Canada = Organic Materials Review Institute of Canada.
OMRI-USA = Organic Materials Review Institute of USA.

 

Other Related Problems

Expand All | Collapse All
 

Blossom end rot

Rot starts as a small, water-soaked area at the bottom end of the fruit which whitens and enlarges as the fruit ripens. It is caused by a calcium deficiency brought on by environmental stresses such as drought, sudden high temperatures or excessive nitrogen that promotes too rapid growth.

Control

Avoid excessive nitrogen and maintain a constant soil moisture condition throughout the growing season. Foliar applications of calcium are rarely beneficial since calcium is not readily translocated in the plant.

 

Sunscald

White patches appear on shoulders and sides of fruit exposed to the sun as internal temperatures approach 50°C.

Control

Provide cultural practices that protect the pepper fruits:

  • Pick off early flowers to allow the plant to grow an adequate leaf cover.
  • Ensure high enough nitrogen levels to grow a leafy plant, but not excessive levels which can lead to blossom end rot.
  • Yellow or other light-coloured peppers rarely sunscald.