Agronomic performance of Bambara groundnut genotypes [Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc] under organic fertilization in the Sudano-Sahelian zone of Burkina Faso

In Burkina Faso, Bambara groundnut yields remain low in smallholder agrosystems, partly due to poor soil fertility and limited use of adapted genotypes. Integrating organic fertilization with the selection of high-performing genotypes may enhance crop productivity under Sudano-Sahelian conditions. This study evaluated the agronomic performance of eight Bambara groundnut genotypes under different rates of poultry droppings. A trial with a split-plot design was conducted during the 2023 rainy season, using eight Bambara groundnut genotypes which were subjected to three doses of poultry droppings. Organic fertilization improved soil chemical properties and significantly enhanced plant growth and yield compared with unfertilized plots. Yield responses varied among genotypes, highlighting significant ( p < 0.05) genotype × fertilization interactions. Genotypes E62-a and KVS259 performed best under moderate fertilization, while KVS115 and E17 showed superior performance under higher nutrient input. The findings demonstrate that combining appropriate organic fertilization with the selection of adapted genotypes can substantially improve Bambara groundnut productivity in low-input systems. This study provides practical insights for sustainable intensification of Bambara groundnut cultivation in Burkina Faso.