French Beans: Role of this Summer Legume in Conservation Planning
Rani G. Kumar, Girish K. Panicker* and Franklin O. Chukwuma French, Snap or Kidney beans, Phaseolus vulgaris L., are some of the oldest-cultivated vegetables. This annual, fast-growing legume originated in South and Central America and spread to other parts of the world through the Spanish. Fully matured French beans are called Kidney beans, and French beans with climbing nature are known as runner beans (other names include flageolets and haricot beans). Being sub-tropical in origin, they are susceptible to frost and require a sunny and sheltered site with 61-86°F, for ideal growth. French bean is one of the most important crops in the Unites States and ranks fifth in acreage and seventh in value among the primary vegetables. Purposes
To conserve soil and water through the use of vegetation To maintain and/or to improve soil availability, quality, and soil nutrients To suppress weeds, reduce insect pests and diseases, and increase crop yield To improve soil tilth, soil organic matter, and soil structure
Planting: Early prepared seedbed, time of planting, certified seeds, evenly moist soil enriched with compost or fertilizer with a pH of 5.5 to 7 are vital for bountiful returns. June or July is the suitable time to plant. French beans are usually dwarf varieties. Sow seeds 2 inches deep and drop a seed about every 2-4 inches, with 6 to 9 inches within rows and 24 to 36 inches between rows. One inch of water per week is essential for pod development and flowering. The flowers are equipped with both female and male organs and self-pollinating or can be pollinated by bees. Harvest: Pods are ready to harvest within 45 days (dwarf varieties) to 70 days (climbing varieties) after planting. Pods should be regularly picked while tender and young to boost yield, and prolong flowering and harvest. Take precaution against Halo Blight disease during French Beans harvest. Remove only the top portion of the plant and leave the roots in the ground to decay and release nitrogen. Only fully matured beans are harvested for seed. The average yield recorded in a heavy soil is 11,500 lbs/acre.