Comparative Assessment of Root-Knot Nematode Infestation and Cowpea Grain Yield across Planting Seasons (Published)
Root-knot nematode (RKN) is an economically important pest of cowpea. This study evaluated the relationship between planting season and RKN infestation pressure on cowpea grain yield. The study was carried out in Ibadan (Derived savannah) in the early and late rainy seasons. The RKN-infested field was laid out in a stratified design in twelve 5 × 5 m plots. Soil samples were collected at planting, and grain yield data were estimated at harvest. Data were subjected to a two-way analysis of variance, and significantly different means were separated using Tukey’s HSD at a 5% probability level. Cowpea grain yield was significantly influenced by both planting season and infestation pressure, with early planting season yielding more than that of late-season plantings. These findings highlight the importance of pre-plant soil sampling for RKN enumeration and strategic planting dates. Leveraging the identified nematode density thresholds can support informed management decisions in cowpea production.
Keywords: Climate, Correlation, Infestation, Meloidogyne, Vigna unguiculata