Agronomic behavior of commun bean cultivars (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in the central region of Venezuela

Abstract

In Venezuela, the cultivation and consumption of legumes, mainly bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), has a long historical tradition. This item is produced in almost all the states of the country. In order to determine the agronomic behavior of bean cultivars in the central region of Venezuela, 30 cultivars were planted in four environments: Samán Mocho 2010-11, Samán Mocho 2011-12, CENIAP Aragua and Zuata. The trials were established in a randomized block design in a 10 x 3 alpha lattice arrangement, with two replications. The height of the plant (AP), the number of fruits per plant (NFP) were determined, number of seeds per pod (NSV), the weight of 100 seeds (P100S), and yield (R) were estimated. The analysis of variance was carried out with the GENES 1 statistical program and the comparison of means by Duncan (P<0.05). The cultivar x environment interaction was significant for plant height, yield, and P100S. The NFP presented significant differences for environments and cultivars, while the NSV showed statistical differences between cultivars. The yield (kg.ha^-1) was influenced by soil conditions, mainly the content of organic matter; highlighting the genetic potential of all cultivars in the environment Samán Mocho 2010-11, except for the commercial variety Magdaleno. The highest value of P100S (23.8 g) was reflected by the cultivar UCV-28, an advanced line of the FAGRO-UCV genetic improvement program, and the lowest value was 3.4 g and was shown by the local cultivar I-2368, both in the town of Zuata.