Influence of Plant Competition and Pod Position on Seed Yield Components and Protein Content in Beans

Abstract

The influence of plant competition and pod position on yield components and protein content was studied in beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Plants grown under conditions of relaxed competition were found to increase yield, number of pods/plant, and weight of 100 seeds. However, number of seeds/pod and protein percentage content were not affected by competition. In the study of pod position effect, it was observed that seed weight was affected by pod position somewhat differently in two bean varieties, although both had the lighter seeds in the upper pods. However, the protein content was independent of pod position on the plant. Variety Carioca had heavier seed than variety Jamapa, but the former had lower protein content than the latter.