Classification of Black Pepper Chilling Injury Based on Factor Analysis

Based on historical meteorological data and the critical temperatures inducing chilling injury of black pepper( Piper nigrum L.), a classification was established based on factor analysis method for assessing and ranking chilling injuries in black pepper. Two factors calculated from factor analysis got reasonable explanation and could be used as quantitative indicators to evaluate the formation of chilling injury. After a further calculation of the two factors, an integrated index was obtained to assess and rank chilling injuries of black pepper and showed a good consistency with actual chilling injury investigation. The results indicated that the classification was acceptable and available for evaluating the risk of chilling injury in black pepper.