 |
ProCrop |
Dry Edible Bean Performance as Influenced by Row Spacing
The impact of plant density on dry edible bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) production is important to growers for varied reasons. Knowledge of impacts from different densities is important to traditional growers looking to optimize yield along with those who may produce dry beans using non-traditional planting and harvest equipment. Field trials at Carrington in 1999 and 2000 evaluated the influence of different plant densities on indeterminate upright (Type II) cultivars "Mayflower" navy and "Shadow" black dry bean. Dry bean were planted in 7-and 30-inch row spacings and at seeding rates of 90,000, 105,000 and 120,000 plants acre -1.
The 1999 and 2000 growing seasons were favorable for dry bean production. The plentiful precipitation received in July and August of each year was well distributed and coincided with the critical reproductive growth period of dry bean in the region. The two cultivars selected had a similar response to the row spacing and seeding rates evaluated in this study.
Although the differences were not dramatic, solid seeding dry bean in 7-inch rows caused about a 2-day delay in flowering and physiological maturity compared to beans in 30-inch rows. In 2000, planting dry beans in wide rows resulted in a higher percent stand establishment compared to solid seeding. In both years, the height to the lowest pod was significantly greater at the narrow rows compared to wide rows. This could be an important management tool for producers considering direct harvest. Row spacing affected dry bean seed yield differently in the two years of this experiment. In 1999, planting in 7-inch rows increased yields significantly (240 lbs) compared to the 30-inch spacings. Yields at the two row spacings were similar in 2000.
Source: NDSU Carrington Research Extension Center, 2000 Crop and Livestock Review. B.G. Schatz, S.F. Zwinger, and G.J. Endres
Back to Row Spacing -
Dry Beans Menu
Back to Dry Beans Menu
Back to Main ProCrop Index
