Effect of varieties on growth components and dry matter yield of <i>Lablab purpureus</i> (L) sweet in the semi-arid region of Nigeria

Abstract

Two years field trials were conducted in Maiduguri the Borno State Capital Nigeria to evaluate the effect of varieties on growth components and dry matter yield of three lablab varieties Lablab purpureus (L) sweet (white, black and brown). The experiment was laid in a randomized complete block design. Growth components were determined at 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 weeks after planting and dry matter yield was determined at 12 weeks after planting in 2014 and 2015 cropping season. Results revealed that there was significant (P<0.05) difference between plant heights with the highest plant height (100.44cm) being for white variety in week 10 of 2014. There was no significant (P>0.05) difference recorded in leaf height in throughout the study period. There was no significant difference in dry matter yield however, highest yield of 28.10 t/ha was recorded for Brown lablab variety in 2014 compared to other varieties. From this study, it can be concluded that varietal difference has significantly affected the growth components and dry matter of three lablab varieties. The varieties of lablab investigated can be used as forage legumes which can improve animal performance and productivity.

Keyword: Lablab varieties, dry matter yield, plant height, leaf number