ALLELOPATHIC EFFECT OF AQUEOUS NEEM (AZADIRACHTA INDICA) LEAF EXTRACT ON THE GERMINATION AND EARLY SEEDLING GROWTH OF COWPEA (VIGNA UNGUICULATA)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
This study investigated the allelopathic effects of aqueous neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf
extract on the germination and early seedling growth of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata).
Different concentrations of the extract (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) were applied to
cowpea seeds in a controlled environment. The results indicated a concentrationdependent inhibition of germination rate, root and shoot length, and seedling vigor.
Higher concentrations of neem extract significantly reduced cowpea growth parameters,
suggesting the presence of phytotoxic compounds in neem leaves. This study highlights
the potential use of neem in weed management but cautions its application near
leguminous crops like cowpea
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