Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) Pest Control Methods in Storage and Recommended Practices for Efficiency: A Review

Abstract

Cowpea storage is a profitable venture in Nigeria for the purpose of maintaining regular supply throughout the year and price stabilization when Government buys surplus cowpea at time of harvest at low prices and release them periodically in times of scarcity to force prices down and prevent inflation. In spite of these advantages, storage of cowpea has always been limited by pests and diseases leading to their deterioration. Insect pests are the most constrain in cowpea storage and also fungal diseases growing on or in stored cowpea causing a variety of losses, which includes decrease in germinability, discoloration, heating and mustiness, and change in taste. Therefore, for efficient storage of cowpea, control measures must be adopted through the use of good storage structures, use of conventional chemicals, and use of plant materials. Also recommended practices for cowpea storage must be adhere to and also proper storage would reduce losses and guarantee near even prices for the commodity throughout the year in various parts of Nigeria.

Keywords: Cowpea, Pest Control Method, Storage