Influence of cadmium on early growth of fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis Hook F.) and nutrient uptake in an ultisol

The greenhouse and field trials were conducted at the University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria to determine the influence of Cd on the growth, dry matter yield and nutrient uptake by fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis). Four levels of Cd(NO3)2 treatments namely 0, 50, 100, 200 mg per 5 kg soil equivalent to 0, 20, 40, 80 kgha-1 were used in the greenhouse and field trials respectively. The completely randomized and randomized complete block experimental designs were used in the greenhouse and field trials respectively. Results indicated that increased application of Cd decreased the height, number of leaves, leaf area, stem girth and dry matter yield of the plant. The nutrients content and uptake also decreased with the increase in the supply of the Cd. Higher Cd concentrations and uptake were recorded in the root of the treated plants when compared to the control treatments. The nutrients and oxides components of the soil decreased at various levels of the Cd application. These decrease in soil nutrient components were however not consistent. However, the Cd content of the soil increased with increased Cd treatments