Effect of Plant Population Density of Velvet Bean (MUCUNA COCHINCHINENSIS) for Weed Control at Makurdi, Southern Guinea Savanna of Nigeria

Abstract

Field trials were conducted in 2013 and 2014 raining season on a fallow field at the University of Agriculture Makurdi Teaching and Research Farm ((07 0 41’N, 08 0 37’E and 106.4 m above sea level) using Velvet bean (Mucuna cochinchinensis) to control weeds. Four Mucuna populations were used: 400 plants/ha, 800 plants/ha, 1600 plants/ha and 0.00 plants/ha (control). The experiment was set up in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Prominent weeds at the site were identified in the field in 2013. The four different Mucuna populations were screened for their effects on weed (density, composition), growth characteristics (ground cover, nodulation) and canopy duration. Out of the 4 Mucuna populations, 800 plants/ha had the highest effect on weed density, composition and control percentage, ground cover, canopy duration and nodulation. And 0.00 plants/ha had the lowest effect on weed density, weed composition, weed control percentage, ground cover, canopy duration and nodulation. From the results obtained from the study, it can be concluded that farmers in Makurdi, Southern Guinea Savanna can adopt the planting of Mucuna at 800 plants/ha for weed control.