Optimising Irrigation Intervals in Hydrogel-Amended Media: Effects on Growth Yield, and Physiological Responses of Chilli (Capsicum annum L.)

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of superabsorbent biodegradable hydrogel-amended planting media on Capsicum annuum L. under different irrigation intervals. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) was employed with five irrigation treatments (T1–T5), ranging from daily to six-day intervals. Morphological traits, yield attributes, dry matter partitioning, leaf gas exchange, and cell membrane stability were evaluated. Results indicate that a one-day irrigation interval (T2) with hydrogel-amended media significantly improved plant height (126.9 cm), fruit yield (981.53 g), and dry biomass compared to longer irrigation intervals. Additionally, hydrogel integration influenced leaf gas exchange responses and contributed to maintaining cell membrane stability, as reflected in lower relative injury (RI) values under prolonged irrigation intervals. These findings provide insights into optimising irrigation scheduling and hydrogel application to sustain chilli plant performance under different irrigation regimes.