Effects of Imazethapyr Herbicide and Rhizobium Inoculation on Growth, Nodulation, and Biochemical Responses in Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) Cultivars

Abstract

The present study examines the impact of Imazethapyr herbicide and Rhizobium inoculation on growth parameters, nodulation, and biochemical responses of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata). There were 8 treatments such as different levels of Imazethapyr with and without Rhizobium inoculation. The outcome suggests that Imazethapyr application had significantly influenced seed germination, shoot and root length, fresh and dry weight of shoot and root, nodulation, and biochemical parameters including protein content, proline level, and nitrogen fixation efficiency. This experiment demonstrated the interaction between Imazethapyr application and Rhizobium inoculation on cowpea plant's overall growth and health, but the relationship is complex. This research contributes to understanding the impact of herbicides on leguminous crops and emphasizes the role of beneficial bacteria in reducing herbicide stress.