Yield of peppers grown on white plastic mulch was compared with those grown on compost, sod, and bare ground in Florida. Compost consisting of municipal sewage sludge and yard trimmings was placed on top of the beds at several application rates. Plants grown with any type of mulch yielded more than plants in bare ground plots, but yields were highest on plots mulched with white plastic. Thoroughly soaking of the soil results in uniform soil moisture and is more effective than frequent light irrigations. Peppers have more drought tolerance in terms of plant survival than eggplants or tomatoes, but still need a good water supply to produce large, tender, thick-walled fruits.
Adequate water is also necessary to maintain enough foliage cover to protect fruits from sunscald.
Adequate water during fruiting will prevent bitter flavors from developing in sweet peppers, but may reduce the 'hotness' of chili peppers. Physiological Disorders Sunscald. Soft, light-colored areas develop on parts of the pepper fruits exposed to direct sunlight. These light areas shrink to a white, papery-textured area which can cover up to one third of the fruit. Sunscald is most severe in periods of high temperatures and where leaf cover has been lost because of disease or insect damage.