First results from bean crop in "Zona da Mata" of Pernambuco

Abstract

In an attempt to introduce the growing of beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in the "Zona da Mata" of Pernambuco the author started with 70 varieties from which 12 were selected. It was found that: (1) During the dry season irrigation was very favorable to the culture of beans. The average production in two tests was more than 800 kg/ha. (2) During the rainy season, due to the unfavorable conditions (excessive moisture in the soil and a pH 4.5) the production averaged less than 240 kg/ha. (3) Pests of economic significance during the experiments were the bean beetle (Chrysomelidae, Cerotoma sp.) and the bean hopper (Ciccadellidae; Empoasca Kraemeri). (4) The greatest damage was produced by mosaic disease.