Evaluation of eight varieties of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp) in Asaba agro-ecological environment, Delta State, Nigeria

A study was conducted during the early planting season of 2011 at Asaba,Delta State, Nigeria to evaluate eight varieties of cowpea (IT80D-699, IT82 (e-18),Ife Brown, IT870-9411 and TVX3236, IT90K-277-2, IT870-9411 and IT828-146)for adaptation in the altisol of Asaba agro ecological zone with a view torecommending the suitable varieties to farmers in the area for planting. The resultsshowed that significant differences (P<0.05) existed among the varieties tested in allthe growth characters measured. Ife Brown, IT8482246-4 and TVX3236 varietiesperformed significantly better both in the growth and yield as well as yield relatedparameters when compared to IT800D-699, IT82(e-18), IT870-9411 and IT828-146varieties. This study hereby recommends Ife Brown, IT848-2246-4 and TVX3236varieties which performed appreciably better to farmers in Asaba agro ecologicalzone for planting.