Nodulation and yield of cowpea under different fertilization regimes in the Sudano-Sahelian of Burkina Faso

Abstract

Low soil fertility, coupled with frequently inadequate nodulation, constitutes a
primary constraint limiting cowpea productivity. In this context, identifying high-
yielding varieties and appropriate fertilization strategies appears essential for
sustainably improving the production of this legume. Four fertilization levels,
including F0 (control), F1 (NPK at 100 kg/ha), F2 (unenriched compost at 2,500
kg/ha), and F3 (enriched compost at 2,500 kg/ha) were applied to the cowpea varieties
Neerwaya, Teeksongo, Issa Sosso, Makoyin, and Yipoussi. The experiment was
conducted using a two-factor split-plot design, and sixteen quantitative parameters
were evaluated. The results revealed a significant interaction (P < 0.05) between
variety and fertilization mode for both nodulation and grain yield. The varieties
Makoyin, Teeksongo, and Yipoussi recorded their highest yields under mineral
fertilization (F1), whereas Neerwaya performed better under unenriched compost
(F2). Conversely, the variety Issa Sosso achieved its highest yield under F0. Regarding
nodulation, it was maximized under F3 for most varieties, except for Makoyin and
Teeksongo, which responded better to F2. In summary, each cowpea variety expressed
its genetic potential depending on soil nutrient availability. Specifically, compost
enhances nodulation, whereas NPK promotes cowpea grain production. Read the full
analysis at scientific publication.