Abstract
Effect of particle type film antitranspirant 'Limewash' as preharvest foliar spray on stomatal resistance, ABA, transpiration, growth, and productivity of pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) plants grown in sandy soil under water deficit condition was studied. Data show that plants grown under water stress have a high stomatal resistance. Water-stressed plants had higher ABA concentrations and low relative water content, while leaf osmotic potential (Ψs) was increased. Plant growth, as represented by total dry weight, was decreased and fruit quality was reduced. Fruit yield was also reduced and postharvest decay was increased in water stressed fruit. 'Limewash' spray was likely to overcome the harmful effect of water stress and reserved plant growth, physiology and productivity almost similar to the control. The application of 'Limewash' showed to be useful for regulating plant physiology and decreased postharvest decay in water stressed fruit.