The breeding of navy and culinary beans in Queensland

Abstract

Locally bred and introduced navy and culinary beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) were grown in a series of trials across locations. A wider range of the variables yield, canopy height, and width was found in the introduced entries. These also displayed a range in disease resistances and tolerance of zinc deficiency equal to that in the locally bred entries. Sensitivity to low zinc levels and susceptibility to bacterial blight were both negatively correlated with height and yield. Days to flowering, lodging and 100-seed weight were also associated with various disease and growth expressions. The expected benefits of broadening the genetic base of the breeding program are discussed.