Efficacy study on the influence of manure and Tillage on Cowpea performance in a Sahel Savannah region of Nigeria

Abstract

Average farmers’ uncensored beliefs toward Tillage and manure practices in the Sahel are the notions that informed our decision for this study in northern Yobe State, Nigeria. Its objectives were to determine the effects of tillage depths, manure types, and the nature of their relationships with some performance indices and Grain Yield of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.). Designed on a Split Plot; Tillage depth (Zero, Shallow and Deep tillage) was assigned to main plot while Manure type (No Manure, Cow Dung and Poultry Manure) was assigned to subplot. Plots treated with PM showed the highest positive response compared to other manures in terms of cowpea growth parameters and Grain Yield. Zero Tillage performed better than other tillage depths. It was concluded that Interaction between ZT and PM proved to be the best combination to improve Cowpea farmers Yield and Above Ground Biomass for the farmers and their livestock in Sahel Savannah. Pearson’s Multiple Linear Correlation indicated high positive relationship between OM and all the Cowpea parameters measured (r ≥ +0.65 ≤ +0.92). Tillage depth was found to significantly correlate with Pod length (r = -0.36*) and Single Pod Weight (r = -0.40*) at P ≤ 0.05 in a negative passion.