Growth and yield responses of fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis hook F.) to mulching and varying seed sizes in Nsukka Enugu State Nigeria

Abstract

This experiment studied the effects of seed weight and mulching material on the growth and productivity of fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis), an important leafy vegetable crop widely cultivated in southern Nigeria. The study aimed to optimize the conditions for improved fluted pumpkin cultivation in Nsukka area of Enugu State, Nigeria. A field experiment with a 2 x 3 factorial in randomized complete block design (RCBD) was conducted to evaluating two factors: seed weight (1-9.9g vs >10g) and mulching material (dry grass, black polyethylene sheet, and no mulch). Parameters measured included vine length, number of nodes and leaves, vine girth, survival count, and above-ground biomass at 5, 7, and 9 weeks after planting. The results showed that while mulch type did not significantly influence the measured agronomic parameters, seed size had a considerable impact. Larger seeds (>10g) consistently outperformed smaller seeds across all growth parameters, with significant differences observed in survival count and vegetative traits. The interaction effects revealed synergistic benefits when combining larger seeds with polyethylene mulch, enhancing leaf production, node development, and vine extension. Additionally, the combination of larger seeds with shredded grass mulch boosted vine girth and biomass accumulation, likely due to improved soil moisture conditions.  The study recommends utilizing larger Telfairia seeds (>10g) in combination with shredded grass mulch to maximize vegetative growth development and yield. These findings provide practical recommendations to local farmers for optimizing seed quality and mulching practices in fluted pumpkin cultivation in Nsukka and regions with similar agro-ecological conditions.