Effects of Staking and Weeding Frequencies on the Germination, Growth, Yield and Harvest Duration of Black Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)

The performance and yield of black beans are declining greatly to the extent that it is considered as one of the endangered species of crops. This was mainly due to poor crop management practices. Hence, this study determined the effects of staking and weeding frequencies on the performance of black beans (Phaseolus vulgaris).

The randomized complete block design (RCBD) which was replicated thrice was adopted to conduct the study during 2023 and 2024 planting seasons. Eighteen plots each measuring 1.5 m × 1 m with 0.5 m alley between were made and randomly assigned to six treatment groups with the corresponding replicates as followed: T1 = staked and weeded every 2 weeks, T2 = staked and weeded every 4 weeks, T3 = not staked but weeded every 2 weeks, T4 = not staked but weeded every 4 weeks, T5 = staked and not weeded and T6 = not staked and not weeded. Data collected were analysed using mean and ANOVA at 0.05 level of probability and separation of significant differences between means was done using LSD.

Germination rate, germination percentage and germination index were recorded highest in black beans staked and weeded every 2 weeks. Number of leaves/plant and vine length were best in black beans staked and weeded every 2 weeks which were statistically significant from other groups. Number of pods/plant, pods weight and number of seeds/pod were highest in black beans staked and weeded every 2 weeks and also statistically significant from other treatments.