Effect of NPK Fertilizer Rates on the Vegetative Growth of Fluted Pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis) in Rivers State

Fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis) is an important indigenous leafy vegetable crop cultivated extensively in the South South geopolitical zone of Nigeria for its nutritional and economic value. Adequate nutrient management is essential for sustaining productive output, particularly given the inherently low soil fertility of many farming sites in Rivers State. This study evaluates the effect of varying rates of NPK 20:10:10 fertilizer (0, 100, 200, and 300 kg/ha) on the vegetative growth of fluted pumpkin in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The experiment was conducted during the wet season using a randomized complete block design with three replicates per treatment. Growth parameters measured include vine length, leaf area index, number of leaves, and stem diameter at four weeks after planting. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance, and treatment means were compared using the least significant difference test. Results indicate that application of 200 kg/ha NPK significantly improved vine length and leaf area index compared to the control, while 300 kg/ha showed no additional significant benefit. The study recommends 200 kg/ha as the economically optimal fertilizer rate for fluted pumpkin production in Rivers State. These findings offer practical fertilizer management guidance for smallholder vegetable producers in the Niger Delta region. Keywords: fluted pumpkin, NPK fertilizer, Telfairia occidentalis, vegetative growth, Rivers State