1.
General Description
French beans which may otherwise be known as string, snap or dwarf
beans are grown all year round in frost free areas. Yields are maximized when temperatures
lie between 15 to 28°C and some pollination
problems may occur if temperatures fall to 4°C or go above 35°C.
2.
Soils
Deep, well drained soils are preferred with an ideal pH of 5.5 to 6.5
(CaC12). All soils must be analysed before planting, so that
corrective measures may be taken before a problem becomes noticeable.
3.
Fertilization
As a general guide, apply 800 to 1000kg/ha Compound A, B, C on
lighter soils and 400 to 500kgs/ha on heavier soils. The amount of top dressing
used, and frequency of application varies depending on soil type. On sandy soils
up to 300kg/ha. AN can be applied split on a weekly basis starting from week 3
or 4 and should continue well into flowering and pickling. Less AN would be
required on heavier soils and the time between applications may be longer.
Additional potash may be required at 75 to 100kg/ha. MOP or SOP in total should be applied split between flower bud stage and early production. French beans are sensitive to several micronutrient deficiencies particularly on anthill areas in the lands. Application of foliar sprays containing zinc and iron as well as other elements will be of some benefit to the crop.
4.
Varieties
Rust resistant varieties like the fine beans Moonstone, Lomami, and
Salima, supplied by SeedCo are the order of the day now. Seed may either be
mechanically, or hand sown to achieve a population of 300, 000 plants per
hectare. The approximate weight of seed will vary according to variety, but is
normally in range of 60 to 65kg/ha.
Green beans yield 6 tons to 12 tons per hectare, but yields can be
even high if properly managed. Sow seed to a depth of 25mm into moist
pre-irrigated soil. Always plant upwind when a series of planting are to be in
the same field so that the older plantings are downwind of emerging crop. This
will reduce pest and disease pressure especially thrips, heliothis and rust.
5.
Irrigation
It is preferable to pre-irrigate to field capacity prior to
planting. As the seedlings are emerging, a light irrigation
will help them to push through. Once all plants are through the ground
approximately two weeks after planting, it is advisable to withhold irrigation
to enable the plants to root well and reduce the chances of damping off. After
this initial dry period do not allow soil to dry out as this will cause stress
to the plants and stimulate premature flowering.
Over watering will encourage disease development. There are no hard
and fast rules about timing and quantity of irrigation, which are dependent on
soil type, prevailing climatic conditions and crop maturity. As a rule of thumb
6000m3 is required to see one hectare through to completion during
the hottest time of the year. Any water stress (too much or too little) during
flowering and pod set will cause flower abortion to occur as well as bent cured
beans.
6.
Pests and Diseases
Before using any chemicals please check that it is on the Freshtex Declared Pesticide List and read the label for the manufacturer’s instructions.
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by SeedCo
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