The present work was undertaken to study the effects of planting date and spacing on growth and production of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) in view to increase cowpea yield in Lubumbashi. The experiment was installed following a split splot device with 3 repetitions. The main plots consisted of 3 planting dates (15 December, 30 December and 15 January) and secondary plots, three spacing leading to a density of 125,000 plants per hectare (40 cm x 20 cm x 1 plant; 40 cm x 40 cm x 2 plants and 60 cm x 60 cm x 3 plants). Observations were made on growth and yield parameters. The results showed that late sowing leads to slower growth and lower yield. Sowing the third time results in a lower yield of 50% (500kg.ha-1) compared to planting at first date (1000 kg.ha-1). In addition, the higher yield was obtained with the second planting date (1300 kg.ha-1). The different spacings induced similar effects for all parameters observed. Sowing cowpea on December 30 and spacing of 60 cm x 40 cm x 3 plants would increase effectively cowpea yield in the city of Lubumbashi and its hinterland.
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