Growth and Yields of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp) as Influenced by Seed Characters, Soil Moisture and Season of Planting

摘要: Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp) is an important food legume grown under rainfed conditions in the tropics. However, yield of this crop varies widely most tropical ecosystems due to and environmental factors. Experiments were carried out evaluate effects seed characteristics, soil moisture at planting season establishment on growth parameters cowpea as these influence productivity crop. Growth plants from small seeds with a high conductivity their lea-chates significantly lower than those large seeds. Root seedlings was prominent moderate levels. Low retarded root by reducing dry weights suppressing development laterals. Shoot more sensitive increasing stress growth. Planting wet produced highest yields. Within season, higher when planted early. Establishment later better quality measured terms germination after controlled deterioration.