Emergence, Growth, and Blossoming of Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) at Suboptimal Temperatures

Abstract

The response of 20 lines of beans ( Phaseolus vulgaris L.) was studied at 3 stages of development: germination, vegetative growth, and bloom. Emergence evaluation at 12°C was preferable to 8° or 10°. Radicles in cold-tolerant lines did not emerge except at 10° to 12°. Radicles in standard cultivars emerged at 8°, but the seed rotted. Growth at 16° identified early maturing lines under cold conditions. 25° (day)/8° (night) during bloom identified those lines able to set fruits at low temperatures. These screening parameters correlated well with field performance for percentage of emergence, plant vigor, and yield under cool growing conditions. PI 165426, NY 5-161, and NY 590 exhibited the best overall cold tolerance.