characterization of the ideal bean (phaseo1us vu1garis L.) genotype for intercropping
Abstract
Some 73 hybrid populations of beans
(Phaseolus vulgaris L.) were raised at Thika.
Commencing at F2, P3 or BC1, the seed from
each population was divided into two portions. In
/subsequent segregating generations, eacll portion of
seed was advanced and selection repeatedly done in
either monoculture beans or beans intercropped with
maize at two locations in Kenya.
In order to characterise the ideal be~n genotype
for intercropping,. studies were conducted on the
resultant bean genotype groups having selection
histories either in monoculture or under intercrcpping
with maize. The performances of genotype groups were
compared with respect to yield, yield components and
developmental plant characteristics. Genotype by
cropping system interactions for these characters and
yield correlations between monoculture and
intercropped beans were addressed.
When inter cropped with maize, bean genotypes
selected under intercropping gave higher grain yield
than those selected in monoculture. Low correlation
coefficients between monoculture and beans inter-.
cropped with maize were obtained.
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The study indicated the· early enhancement of
the reproductive phase and~short maturity duration
as adaptive features-of the bean to the inter-cropping
environment.
Adaptive architectural characteristics of
an ideal inter-cropping bean genotype include a short
plant stature with high amount of branching.
Citation
A thesis submitted to the university of Nairobi in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Plant SciencePublisher
Plant Science & Crop Protection, University of Nairobi