Sensitivity of ornamental pepper to ethylene

ABSTRACT The genus Capsicum has varying levels of sensitivity to ethylene. Variability knowledge allows planning post-production methodologies of potted pepper plants and can be used in breeding programs. The objective of this study was to evaluate the ethylene sensitivity of three ornamental pepper genotypes of the germplasm bank of Universidade Federal de Viçosa. Pepper plants were exposed to 10 μL L-1 ethylene during 48 hours. The flowers were highly sensitive to exogenous ethylene in all genotypes except Pimenta colorida which was moderately sensitive. Regarding leaf abscission, Pimenta colorida and Pimentão ornamental are classified as highly sensitive to ethylene application. Already the fruits responded with the early appearance of the typical coloration when ripe, except for Pimenta laranja. When fruits fell, the highest rates were observed for green fruits, followed by ripe green and ripe fruits.