VARIATION IN FLOWER ABSCISSION OF PEPPERS UNDER STRESS SHADING CONDITIONS

Seedlings from 77 accessions including inbreds, F-1 hybrids and seven F-2 populations were exposed to approximately 60% shading for 35 days following transplanting into the field. Most of the lines did not set fruit under the shading due to heavy abscission of flowers. A few exce ptional lines, hybrids and F-2 segregants showed resistance to absciss ion and set normal fruits under the shading regime. This procedure is suggested for screening against stress-induced flower abscission. An a ssociation is suggested between resistance to shading and to high temp eratures and its genetic control.