Beans are a staple food crop in most African countries. A wide range of bean varieties are grown in Tanzania. These include the following;

• Rose Coco
• Mwitemania
• Wairimu
• Mwezi Moja
• Canadian W
• KK 15

Planting Propagation is by seeds; we use certified seeds and also those that are disease free. We do our planting at the onset of the rains if production is rain fed. Some times we intercrop with other crops like maize. Seeds germinate within 4 – 7days, depending on the variety and environmental factors.

Bean nutrition for optimal production
We ensure that our bean crops are supplied with sufficient nutrients, both macro and micro nutrient elements. This is because, if deprived of such nutrients, the crop becomes weak and very susceptible to attack by pathogens. This subsequently leads to reduced yield. During planting, we also apply phosphorous rich fertilizer. Considering the amount of organic matter in the soil, manure can also be applied. 4 – 5 weeks after germination, top dressing should is done. We also use CAN or some basal fertilizer rich in Calcium, Boron and Nitrates. However, these basal fertilizers should be supplemented with foliar fertilizers because they have a wide range of nutrient elements which are very vital to the plants. Weed Control Weeding should be done in order to avoid losses attributed to weed infestation. This is because they compete with the crop for nutrients, water, space, among others, as well as harboring pests and diseases. Before flowering, weeding is essential.

Maturity, Harvest & Post-Harvest Handling
Depending on the various varieties, beans are ready for harvesting 70 – 120 days after sowing. Others take shorter periods. At maturity, the plants have matured and leaves turned yellowish to brown or fallen. Beans can be harvested green or when dry. For dry harvesting, pods are harvested when completely dry. However, if they have withered but are still moist, they can be picked and sun dried. Plants can also be uprooted if most of the pods are ready for harvesting. Pods that are completely dry split open, exposing the dried beans, which is a risky time for harvesting so some good timing is necessary. Green beans can be refrigerated for 8 – 10 days while dried beans can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to a year or more.