INFLUENCE OF RHIZOBIAL INOCULATION ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND NODULATION CHARACTERISTICS OF COWPEA IN DUTSIN-MA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KATSINA STATE NIGERIA.
Abstract
This study investigated the influence of rhizobial inoculation on the growth performance and nodulation characteristics of cowpea in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area of Katsina State, Nigeria. The experiment was conducted during the rainy season using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with two treatments: inoculated and non-inoculated cowpea plants. Parameters assessed included plant height, number of leaves, stem girth, number of nodules, fresh nodule weight, dry matter yield, and grain yield. Data collected were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results revealed that rhizobial inoculation significantly improved growth performance and nodulation characteristics of cowpea compared to the control treatment. Inoculated plants recorded higher plant height, increased leaf production, greater nodulation, and improved grain yield. The findings suggest that rhizobial inoculation enhances biological nitrogen fixation and contributes to sustainable cowpea production in the study area. The study recommends the adoption of rhizobial inoculants by farmers to improve soil fertility and crop productivity.
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