Mahai S.
Abstract
Field experiment was conducted during 2021 cropping season at the teaching and research farm of the college to determine the performance of three cultivars of okra as influenced by densities of vegetable cowpea (maimadara). The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD). There were 13 treatment combinations replicated three times. Treatments include intercrop of three cultivars of okra (Clemson (O1), Lady’s finger (O2), and LD 88 (O3), with vegetable cowpea at three planting density (20,000 stands per hectare (C1), 30,000 stands per hectare (C2), 40,000 stands per hectare (C3)) and 30,000 stands per hectare vegetable cowpea (C2) were solely planted as control. Data were collected on growth parameters (Seed germination percentage, plant height/length of vine, number of leaves and leaf breadth at 4, 6 and 8 weeks after planting. Yield data collected includes vegetable cowpea and okra fresh fruits yield. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and mean were separated by Duncan multiple range test (DMRT). The result shows that okra and vegetable cowpea intercrop significantly influenced cowpea length of vine, Okra and cowpea leaf breadth, and Cowpea total seed weight. At 8 WAP, okra cultivar (Clemson (O1) recorded the highest leaf breadth (14.1cm) which was significantly higher than the leaf breadth in the other treatments. Okra and vegetable cowpea did not significantly influence okra fresh fruits yield, although cultivar O1 (Clemson) recorded highest yield in the total weight of fruits (61.4g/plant) which were significantly higher than all other varieties. Okra varieties and cowpea interaction significantly influenced cowpea total yield weight. Treatment O2C3 recorded highest seed weight (219.3g/plant) which was significantly higher than those obtained from other treatments. It was concluded that, Clemson okra cultivar was the best in all the parameters measured at 30.000 stands per hectare with the highest fruits yield of 52.0g/plant and is therefore suggested for cultivation to farmers in the study area and the environs.