Cowpea

The story of cowpea (black-eyed peas) is a fascinating example of how science can solve the world's biggest problems—even more fascinating is the story of the scientist behind the research. B.B. Singh wrote this book to serve as an accessible summary of cowpea breeding, management,and use. He has devoted his life's work to solving the ""protein gap"" of the Green Revolution in which the emphasis on corn and wheat neglected the protein-rich legumes vital to plant-based nutrition. Today,under his careful tending, cowpea truly has become the food legume of the century. From genetics to recipes, he gives a full account of how cowpea belongs in our global agriculture and in every diet. Along the way, he shares his inspiring story. Foreword ix

Preface xi

Origin, Distribution, and Importance 1

Botany and Physiology 17

Production Constraints 35

Genetics and Breeding 55

Improved Cowpea Cultivation and Seed Production 87

Cowpea Uses and Markets 125

Future Prospects of Cowpea 145

Glossary 158

Selected References 165

About the Author 169

Dr. Bharat Singh is best known for his work in developing new varieties of cowpea, short season varieties that ensured one crop, and in years when rain fall was adequate, two crops. This scientific accomplishment was great in and of itself, but his follow-up actions that resulted in changes in social and cultural practices was what really led to his scientific accomplishments being utilized to the fullest extent. His mission oriented scientific work combined with his untiring desire to help people has markedly improved the lives of millions of people in underdeveloped countries.