Improving Yield and Pod Quality of Green Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) through Application of Nitrogen and Boron Fertilizers in the Central Rift Valley of Ethiopia

Abstract

Background and Objective: Green beans are economically very important vegetable crops in Ethiopia for both small scale and large commercial producers. However, its productivity and pod quality are constrained by lack of proper crop management mainly fertilizer application including nitrogen (N) and boron (B). To determine optimum amount of N and B application for growth, yield and pod quality of green bean with economically feasible way. Materials and Methods: This field experiment was conducted in Ethiopia at Dugda district (Meki) during the 2018 dry season (January-March) under irrigation. The experiment was conducted using split plot arrangement of four levels of nitrogen as main plot factor (0, 50,100 and 150 kg haG1 ) and four levels of boron as sub plot factor (0, 2, 4 and 6 kg haG1 ) in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Data on phenology, growth yield and pod quality of green bean were recorded. Results: It was found that application of N and B resulted in significant impact on phenology, growth, yield and pod quality of green bean under Dugda conditions. Generally, delayed flowering and maturity, surplus vegetative growth, higher yield and good pod quality of green beans were observed under combinations of higher rates of N and B. However, the effect of B was more pronounced at the higher rates of N. Conclusion: It can be concluded that combined application of 100-150 kg haG1 N and 2 kg haG1 B resulted in better yield and pod quality of green bean and economically feasible for green bean producers in the study area.