Produção e qualidade pós-colheita de frutos de pimenta-de-cheiro em função de doses de N, P e K em Latossolo amarelo distrófico da Amazônia Central

Abstract

“Pimenta-de-cheiro” (Capsicum chinense Jacquin) is a widely consumed species in Brazil, valued for its distinctive flavor and aroma, and used both for fresh consumption and as a raw material in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. However, optimizing its productive potential requires rational and sustainable fertilization management. In this context, the present study aimed to evaluate the effects of different nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) rates on biometric, yield, and post-harvest traits of C. chinense, as well as to determine the optimal fertilization rates for recommendation. The experiment was conducted under field conditions using the Lupita cultivar, in a randomized complete block design with a fractional factorial arrangement (1/5) 5³, totaling 25 treatments with two replications. Each experimental unit consisted of 25 plants, with the 9 central plants considered for evaluation. Soil analyses were performed prior to treatment application to assess fertility. Treatments consisted of five levels of N (0, 22, 66, 200, and 600 kg ha-1), P₂O₅ (0, 50, 100, 200, and 400 kg ha-1), and K₂O (0, 22, 66, 200, and 600 kg ha-1). Quantitative and qualitative descriptors were evaluated, including root dry mass (MSRAI), stem dry mass (MSCAU), branch dry mass (MSR), and leaf dry mass (MSFOL). In fruits, fresh fruit mass (MFF), macro (ACma) and micronutriente (ACmi) accumulation in dry matter, and physicochemical parameters such as pH, titratable acidity (ATT), soluble solids (SS), Soluble solids to titratable acidity ratio (SS/TA), total soluble sugars (AST), and vitamin C (VIT.C) content were assessed. In addition, the optimal N, P, and K rates for maximum yield (PM) and maximum economic efficiency (MEE) were estimated. Fertilization significantly influenced biomass accumulation in C. chinense, with N showing the greatest effects on MSR, MSCAU, and MSR, while K positively affected MSF. Fresh fruit mass was influenced by the interaction between N and K, indicating that fruit production depends on the combined effect of these nutrients and highlighting the importance of nutritional balance. No significant effects were observed on macro- and micronutrient accumulation in fruits, suggesting that the mineral composition of the fruits remained stable under different N, P, and K rates. In contrast, fruit quality attributes were affected by fertilization, with P influencing pH and SS, whereas K affected ATT. The estimated maximum yield was approximately 7.8 t ha⁻¹, obtained with economically optimal rates of 283.16 kg ha⁻¹ N, 251.11 kg ha⁻¹ P₂O₅, and 366.83 kg ha⁻¹ K₂O, indicating a higher requirement for P and a synergistic effect between N and K. These results demonstrate the importance of balanced fertilization management to maximize fruit yield and quality while improving nutrient use efficiency and the sustainability of sweet pepper production systems.