Growth and yield attributes of four varieties of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp) in Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

Field experiments were conducted during the cropping season of the year 2014, to evaluate the growth and yield parameters of four varieties of cowpea (IT04K-223-1, IT04K-321-2, IT04K-332-1 and IT04K-217-5) at Nsugbe Anambra State, Southeastern rainforest zone of Nigeria. A randomized complete block design, replicated three times was used.  The results were statistically analyzed using ANOVA. Results showed significant differences (P<0.05) among the varieties evaluated in both growth and yield. Variety IT04K-321-2 consistently yielded better than other varieties evaluated. It had the highest number of pods per plant, pod weight, number of seeds per pod and 1000-seeds weight and plant height with the values of 43.80, 3.01, 4.05, 16.30 and 43.92cm respectively.  From the study, it is established that varietal differences exist in cowpea with respect to growth and yield attributes. Under proper management, the yield obtained from Nsugbe area of Anambra State could be compared with yields from other cowpea growing States. This study therefore recommended that variety IT04K-321-2, which had comparable higher yield and was adapted to Nsugbe area be integrated into the farming system for maximum yield and utilization. Farmers are therefore encouraged to integrate this variety into their farming system for maximum yield and utilization in the study area.