Potential of Trichoderma spp. and Bacillus sp. on the yield of cowpea crop (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp) in Manabí, Ecuador

Abstract

The cowpea bean is recognized as one of the most important legumes in human nutrition due to its high protein value; Likewise, microorganisms such as Bacillus and Trichoderma stand out for their ability to stimulate various processes related to plant growth and productivity. In turn, the adequate use of these microorganisms is an alternative to increase the productive potential of cowpea beans. This research aimed to evaluate the effect of the microorganisms Trichoderma spp. and Bacillus sp., in the yield of cowpea crops under field conditions. The study was carried out at the ESPAM MFL Polytechnic Campus, Calceta, Manabí, Ecuador. A completely randomized block design with 4 repetitions was used. The microorganisms were applied at two frequencies (8 and 15 days), at a dose of 1 L. ha^-1, with a 20 L backpack pump. Productive parameters such as: pod length, number of seeds, weight were evaluated. of 100 grains, number and weight of pods per plot, and yield. All treatments in which Trichoderma spp. and Bacillus sp. individually or combined, reached averages of more than 119 pods per plot, as well as yields above 5 000 kg ha^-1. However, there were no notable changes in the length of pods, number of seeds or the weight of 100 green grains. In turn, the application frequencies did not stimulate the productive variables separately. The effectiveness of the use of microorganisms suggests their potential to improve the yield and characteristics of cowpea beans. Also, it highlights the viability of using these microorganisms as biofertilizers in cowpea cultivation, especially in regions where this legume is essential.