Simulation of sweet pepper growth based on INTERCOM: validation of the model in Central Italy.

Intercom model, a dynamic simulation model for interplant competition, was used to simulate sweet pepper growth and potential production in central Italy. The predictive ability of the model was validated using data from four independent field trials carried out from 1991 to 1994. Results shows that the final fry matter production was correctely simulated both at potential level and under water limiting conditions by using plant parameters determined from a single experiment and from literature.