Evaluation of Vegetable Type Cowpea Varieties for Commercial Production in the River Basin and Low Hill Areas

Abstract

Five vegetable type cowpea varieties were evaluated in farmer's field with farmers participation
at Chambas, Tanahu (450 masl) in two consecutive years 2003 and 2004 rainy season to identify
suitable vegetable type cowpea varieties for commercial production in the river basin and low
hill areas of western region. The experiment was arranged in randomized complete block design
(RCBD) with 5 replications, farmer as replication. Prakash variety used as the check was earliest
in flowering and days to first harvest from sowing with an average of 37 and 45 days
respectively. Pod diameter and pod length among the varieties was significantly different. The
biggest sized and longest pods were produced by IT 86F-2062-5 (Green) with an average of
0.990 cm in diameter and 25.60 cm in length. The highest green pod yield (4.971 t/ha) was
produced by IT 86F-2062-5 (Green). Despite the earliness in flowering, fruiting and harvesting,
Prakash produced the smallest (0.668 cm) and shortest (16.21 cm) pods and ultimately the
lowest yield (2.443 t/ha). IT 86F-2062-5 (Green) produced the biggest size (0.990 cm diameter)
and longest (24.60 cm) green pods as compared to other varieties IT 86D-792, IT 86F-2062-5
(White), IT 86D-798 and Prakash with white color, small size and fibrous pods. The results of
the experiment and farmers preferences revealed that the variety IT 86F-2062-5 (Green) could
be recommended for commercial production in the river basin and low hill areas of western
region.

Key words: Cowpea; green pods; river basin; variety; vegetable

DOI: 10.3126/narj.v7i0.1861

Nepal Agriculture Research Journal Vol.7 2006 pp.16-20