Varietal characteristics and nitrogen fixation in cowpea

Authors

  • Richard A. Graham Department of Soil Science, University of the West Indies, St Augustine, Trinidad
  • Thomas W. Scott Department of Agronomy, Comell University, Ithaca, NY, USA

Keywords:

Nitrogen fixation, Cowpea, Yield

Abstract

Twelve cowpea varieties were evaluated in a time-phase study for nodulation and dry matter and N accumulation. Consistent differences were observed between varieties for all parameters. Significant relation- ships were observed between total N and shoot weight, total N and nodule weight and total N and seed yield. Top growth appeared to have a significant effect on N fixation and may be a valuable criterion in breeding for increased N fixation in cowpea.

Issue

Section

Research Papers