Capsicum is a major Australian crop, with about 7% grown under protected cropping and the remainder produced in the open field. The production areas have been declining in recent years, however capsicum remains a major crop for the Australian vegetable industry.

Optimal temperatures for capsicum production are 20-25C, resulting in yields of around 30t/ha (field production).

• At high temperatures (32C) pollen viability is reduced, resulting in lower fruit set
• High temperatures also increase the risk of sunburn, particularly under extreme conditions
• Breeding for high temperature tolerance is difficult because of the impacts on fundamental physiological processes affecting pollen development and release. However, the Asian Vegtable research and Development Centre is currently working on varieties with tolerance up to 32C
• At the lower threshold for capsicum growth (8-10C) fruit fail to develop normal size and shape
• Breeding for low temperature development is achievable, with varieties potentially available that tolerate night temperatures of 8-10C