EFFICACY OF LIVING MULCHES FOR AGRONOMIC GROWTH IMPROVEMENT IN EARLY DEVELOPMENTAL STAGES OF MAIZE (ZEA MAYS L.)

ABSTRACT This study evaluated the effects of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens) living mulches on maize (Zea mays L.) growth. The field trial was conducted in August 2024 at the Agricultural Technology Teaching and Research Farm, Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti. Two living mulch treatments and a control were applied to four maize varieties using a split-plot design with three replications. Cowpea and Mucuna pruriens were intercropped with maize, while control plots had maize only. Growth data, including emergence count (5, 7, and 9 days after planting), plant height, leaf number, leaf area, nodes, and internodes, were recorded. Results showed that cowpea enhanced early seed emergence, while Mucuna and control improved leaf area, plant height, and overall growth at later stages. Oba Super-1 exhibited superior emergence and growth, while TZL Comp3c5.. Significant interactions were observed between mulch treatments and maize varieties, with specific combinations yielding optimal results. Mulch treatments positively influenced seed emergence, with cowpea leading in early emergence, whereas Mucuna and control promoted vegetative growth. Variety Oba Super-2 performed consistently well in multiple traits, while Oba Super-1 had lower leaf numbers. These findings highlighted the potential of living mulches to enhance maize growth and the importance of selecting suitable mulch materials and maize varieties for improved agronomic performance.