Dry Bean Production Guide

A-1133, July 1997. NORTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY.

Published in cooperation with Northarvest Bean Growers Association

Introduction
Dry edible bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is a human food high in protein, phosphorus, iron, vitamin B
1
,
fiber, with no cholesterol. Dry bean is an imported staple in many areas of the world, especially
Central and South American and Africa. Different cultures have developed a multitude of end
products made with dry edible bean.
Dry bean is a relatively new crop to the North Dakota-Minnesota region. They have been grown on
a large scale since the 1970s. Two classes of dry bean (navy and pinto) encompass the major
commercial acreage. In addition, black turtle, red kidney, cranberry, pinks, and small red bean
classes are also grown on limited acres. Dry bean are generally grown under contract with a
processing firm. These firms are located throughout the eastern half of North Dakota and west
central Minnesota counties.
The North Dakota Dry Edible Bean Council, the Minnesota Dry Bean Council and the Northarvest
Bean Growers Association are organizations which promote and assist in marketing of dry bean.
The North Dakota Dry Edible Bean Seed Association is organized to grow and promote dry-bean
seed for planting.
Dry bean is a crop that requires special cultural management and attention by the producer. Proper
management is essential from field selection and planting through harvest and marketing for
maximum profitability.
The primary objective of this guide is to help dry bean growers and related industry personnel to be
proficient and successful.
Variety Descriptions
Class and Plant -- Blight -- -- BCMV -- Fusarium White
Cultivar Mat
3
Type
2
Common Halo Type NY15 Root Rot Mold Rust
1

-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PINTO
Agassiz E B S R R S S
Apache M V S R
Arapaho M V S R R S S
Aztec E UV S S S S S
Bill-Z M V S R R S MR
Chase L V R R S S T R
Elizabeth M V S R
Fargo E V S-MS
Fiesta E V S T R R S S S
Focus M UV S R
Hatton E V S R R S S-MR
Maverick ME V S S S R
Othello E V S T R R S S
Remington M UV R
RS-101 E USV S S
Topaz E V T R R S S-MS
Winchester ME UV R
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NAVY
Agri-1 M B S T R R S S-MR
Aspen M USV R R R
Avanti M USV R R R-MS
Envoy M B R R S R
Fleetwood L B S T R R S S S-MR
Huron M USV R R T R
Mayflower ML USV T R R T T R
Navigator M USV R R T R
Newport E B R R S R
Norstar ME USV S T R R T R
Prize M B R R R
Schooner ML USV R R S R
Seafarer E B S T R R S S S
Snowbunting E B S T R S S S S
Upland ME B S T R S S S S-MR
Vista ML USV R R T R
Voyager ME V R R S S-MS
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
CRANBERRY
Cran-09 M B R R S S R
Mich. Imp L V S R
Taylor Hort E B S S R
UI-50 M B R R
UI686 M V R R R
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
SMALL RED
Cajun E UV MR
Garnet M V R R S S
NW59 ML V S T R R T S S
NW63 ML V S T R R T S S
UI-239 ME V S S
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
BLACK
Blackhawk L USV S T R R T T R
Blackjack ML USV R R R
Black Magic L USV S T R R T T R
Domino L USV S T R R T T R
Midnight L USV S S R R T T R
Panther M USV R R T R
Raven ME R R S R
Shadow ME USV R R T R
T-39 M USV S T R R T T R
UI-911 M V R R R
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PINK
Flamingo E V S S
UI537 E V R R S S
Viva M V R S S
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LT. RED KIDNEY
California E B S S S S
Early
Chinook M B T R R R
Foxfire ME B T R R R T T R
Sacramento E B S S S S S S S
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DK. RED KIDNEY
Drake M B S S R R S T R
Isles M B T R R T T R
Montcalm ML B S T R R S T R
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GREAT NORTHERN
Alpine M UV S T R R S R
Beryl M V S
Starlight ME V T T T T MR
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Some cultivar disease reactions adapted from North Central Regional
Extension Publication 198.
1
Reaction based upon field observation of rust obtained in North
Dakota, 1995-1996 and field collections, 1996
S = Susceptible; MS = Moderately Susceptible;
T = Tolerant; MR = Moderately Resistant.
R = Resistant;
2
V = Vine; UV = Upright Vine;
B = Bush; USV = Upright Short Vine.
3
RM = Relative Maturity; E = Early;
M = Medium; ME = Medium Early;
ML = Medium Late; L = Late.

Seed Certification
The purpose of seed certification is to maintain and make available to the public high quality seed of
crop varieties that are produced, conditioned, and distributed as to insure proper identity and
genetic purity. This process of maintaining genetic purity is done through a nationally recognized
seed certification system. Each state has an authorized agency that establishes minimum standards
for genetic purity and other seed quality factors for each class of certified seed. These minimum
standards must meet or exceed the standards set by the Association of Official Seed Certifying
Agencies.
In the case of dry edible beans other seed quality factors like seed borne diseases are as important
as genetic purity. When seed is label as certified, a buyer can be assured that the seed has been
produced and lab tested to maintain varietal purity, low levels of disease, noxious weeds, inert
matter and other crop seeds. Each seed lot is conditioned and handled as seed and must meet
minimum standards for germination. Seed can not be sold as certified seed until it has passed field
inspection and laboratory testing.
All seed sold as certified seed must bear a certified seed tag on the bag. Those tags will come in
three colors. A white tag that represents Foundation class seed, a purple tag that represents
Registered class seed and a blue tag represents Certified class seed. These are the only color of
tags that are recognized by the Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies.
The Idaho Department of Agriculture provides a windrow field inspection service to monitor bean
fields for blight symptoms. All seed that passes their windrow inspection is given a Green tag. No
varietal purity check are made during these inspections, nor are there any laboratory tests for seed
borne blight organisms conducted on such seed lots by the Idaho Ag Department.

Plant Variety Protection PVP
Plant variety protection provides owners of a novel variety control over who can produce and
market the variety that they develop. A Certificate of Plant Variety Protection can be issued either
with a requirement that the variety be certified by an official certifying agency (Title V option) or the
certificate of protection can be issued which gives the owner of the variety or his designee the
exclusive right to produce and market the variety as seed.
The Title V option essentially allows anyone to handle the variety providing it has met all of the
certification requirements.
Marketing of protected varieties that don't have the certification requirement is usually restricted to
those that are authorized to handle the variety either through a licensing agreement or through an
established dealer network.
Approximately one-half of the dry bean varieties that have a Certificate of Plant Variety Protection
are protected with the Title V option that requires certification.
Dry Bean Types and Development Stages
Two basic plant types are found in dry edible bean, determinate (bush) or indeterminate (vining or
trailing). Cultivars may be classified according to plant types. For example, navy beans may be
either of the bush or vining type. In the determinate type, stem elongation ceases when the terminal
flower racemes of the main stem or lateral branches have developed. On indeterminate types,
flowering and pod filling will continue simultaneously or alternately as long as temperature and
moisture permits growth to occur.
In addition to the distinction between determinate and indeterminate plant types, four plant growth
habits have been identified. These are: Type I Determinate bush; Type II Upright short vine,
narrow plant profile, three to four stems; Type III Indeterminate, prostrate vine; Type IV
Indeterminate with strong climbing tendencies. These growth habits have become useful in
identification and classification of new upright bean cultivars.
Plant development for both determinate and indeterminate plant types has been divided into
vegetative (V) and reproductive (R) stages as indicated in Table 1. Vegetative stages are
determined by counting the number of nodes on the main stem beginning at the unifoliate leaf node
(V1). Reproductive stages are described with pod and seed characters in addition to nodes. The
first pod developing on the plant is described and followed to full size. At the time of first bloom (R),
secondary branching begins in the axis of lower nodes which will produce secondary groups of
blooms or pods. It is important to follow the main stem, which is readily discernible on both
determinate and indeterminate plants. A node is counted when the edges of the leaflets no longer
touch.






Table 1. Stages of vegetative and reproductive development in determinate bush (Type I) and
indeterminate (Type III) dry bean.
General Description* Days from
Stage No. Vegetative stages planting**
---------------------------------------------------------------------
V1 Completely unfolded leaves at the primary 10
(unifoliolate) leaf node.
V2 First node above primary leaf node. Count 19
when leaf edges no longer touch.
V3 Three nodes on the main stem including the 29
primary leaf node. Secondary branching
begins to show from branch of V1.
V(n) n nodes on the main stem, but with blossom A new node
clusters still not visibly opened. each 3 days
V5 Bush (determinate) plants may begin to 50
exhibit blossom and become stage R1.
V8 Vine (indeterminate) plants may begin to 40
exhibit blossom and become stage R1.
------------------------------------------------------------

Determinate BUSH (Type I)
Reproductive Stages
R1 One blossom open at any node. 50
R2 Pods long at first blossom position. 53
Usually node 2 to 3.
R3 Pods 1 inch long at first blossom position. 56
Secondary branching at all nodes, so plant
is becoming denser but not taller, bloom.
R4 Pods 3 inches long seeds not discernible. 59
Bush types may be shorter.
R5 Pods 3-4 inches. Seed discernible. 64
R6 Seeds at least inch over long axis. 66
R7 Oldest pods have developed seeds. Other parts 72
of plant will have full length pods with
seeds almost as large as first pods. Pods
will be developed over the whole plant.
R8 Leaves yellowing over half of plant very few 90
small pods and these in axils of secondary
branches, small pods may be drying. Point of
maximum production has been reached.
R9 Mature, at least 80% of the pods showing 105
yellow and mostly ripe. Only 40% of leaves
still green color.
------------------------------------------------------------

Indeterminate VINING Plant (Type III)
Reproductive stages
R1 One blossom open at any node. Tendril will 40
begin to slow.
R1 Pods inch long at first blossom position 43
(node 2 to 5 most plants). Blossom would have
just sluffed.
R3 Pods 1 inch long at first blossom position. 46
Pods are showing at higher nodes when blossom
sluffs, bloom.
R4 Pods 2 inches long at first blossom position. 50
R5 Pods 3 plus inches long, seeds discernible 56
by feel.
R6 Pods 4.5 inches long with spurs (maximum 60
length). Seeds at least inch long axis.
R7 Oldest pods have fully developed green seeds. 70
Other parts of plant will have full length
pods with seeds near same size. Pods to the
top and blossom on tendril, nodes 10-13.
R8 Leaves yellowing over half of plant, very few 82
small new pods/blossom developing, small pods
may be drying. Point of maximum production
has been reached.
R9 Mature, at least 80% of the pods showing 94
yellow and mostly ripe. Only 30% of leaves are
still green.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
* Adapted from: Growth stages according to Marshall J. Lebaron
(University of Idaho, College of Agriculture, Current
Information Series No. 228, April 1974).
** Approximate number of days. This will vary from season to
season and variety to variety.


















Plant Description
Visual Aid (6KB b&w image)

1. Hypocotyl
2. Radicle
3. Cotyledon (simple leaf)
4. Colydeonary node
5. Tap root
6. Lateral (branch) root
7. First true leaf (unifoliate)
8. Trifoliate leaflet
9. Terminal bud
10. Axillary buds
11. Hypocotyl arch
12. Nodes (point of leaf attachment)
13. Nodules
14. Root hairs



Planting Rates
Planting rates vary from 35 to 65 pounds per acre, depending on row spacing, bean plant type and
percent pure live seed. Navy bean range from 2,200 to 2,500 seeds per pound. Planting rates
suggested for navy beans are 35 to 45 pounds per acre of pure live seed. Studies conducted at
various plant populations do not indicate any significant advantage to having populations greater
than 90,000 plants per acre for Type I navy beans. Slightly higher rates are advised under irrigation.
Pinto beans range from 1,200 to 1,500 seeds per pound. Planting rates suggested for pintos are 50
to 65 pounds per acre of pure live seed. Populations of 70,000 plants per acre for Type III (pinto)
beans have been found to be adequate. In some instances, reduced yields were observed when
plant populations were below these recommendations. Under irrigation, some lodging has been
observed in the Type I cultivars at extremely low plant populations.
Rates should be adjusted for low germination or cool, wet planting conditions. To obtain desired
plant populations, overseed live seed by 10 to 15 percent to compensate for losses during
emergence. The normal planting depth is about 1-2 inches. Seed should not be planted deeper
unless the topsoil is dry. Plant seeds in moist soil if possible. Windbreaks of corn or sunflower can
be planted in fields where winds could become a problem at harvest. Growers should test their
planter on a hard surface and in the field at normal planting speeds to ensure proper depth and
seeding rate.
Growing Requirements
Dry bean are adapted to a wide variety of soils. They are not sensitive to soil type as long as it is
reasonably fertile, well drained and free of conditions that interfere with germination and plant
emergence, such as saline (salt affected) soils.
Saline soils affect germination, emergence and later plant growth. Plants that emerge on saline
soils may become yellow and have stunted growth. The leaf edges of the affected plant will be
brown and dead and often accumulations of salt may be seen on the leaf surface (refer to the
section on fertility).
Dry bean are a warm season crop and usually are not affected by high temperatures if adequate
soil moisture is present. Cool, humid or rainy weather is unfavorable to dry bean, but they are
adapted to a fairly wide range of temperature. The optimum average growing temperature for field
beans is 65 to 75F. Dry bean production is more successful in areas where rainfall is light during
the latter part of the growing season. It is essential that the crop be grown on a well-drained soil
since beans are extremely sensitive to standing water or waterlogged conditions.
Dry bean are not tolerant to frost or to prolonged exposure to near-freezing temperatures at any
stage of plant growth.
Hail Damage
The amount of crop damage caused by hail will depend on the intensity, size of hail stones and
duration, as well as plant type and stage of development. Determinate (Type I) cultivars are likely to
suffer greater losses than the indeterminate (Types II and III) cultivars, because Types II and III can
recover and compensate to a greater degree than can the Type I.
Severe hail damage can delay plant maturity. The earlier the stage of development at which the
injury occurs, the greater the time available for recovery, resulting in less yield reduction. Hail will
not directly affect seed quality unless a strike occurs on the pod.





Planting Guide
-------------------------------------------------------------
NAVY BEANS
-------------------------------------------------------------
Approximate
lbs. Live Seed Plants --------- Row Width -----------
per Acre per Acre Seed spacings within crop row
-------------------------------------------------------------
6" 12" 22" 30"
30 75,000 3.8 2.8
40 100,000 5.2 2.9 2.1
50 125,000 8.4 4.2 2.3 1.7
60 150,000 7.0 3.5 1.9 1.4
70 175,000 6.1 3.0 1.7
80 200,000 5.2 2.6 1.5
-------------------------------------------------------------
PINTO BEANS 12" 22" 30"
-------------------------------------------------------------
50 62,500 8.4 4.6 3.4
60 75,000 7.0 3.8 2.8
70 87,500 6.3 3.3 2.5
80 100,000 5.2 2.9 2.1
-------------------------------------------------------------

Estimation of Dry Bean Yields
You can estimate dry bean yields by knowing the number of seeds per pod, pods per plant and
plants per 1/1000th of an acre. At the time of counting seeds and pods, the maturity status of each
should be determined.
If a seed or pod will not mature, it shouldn't be counted. Then count the total plants per 1/1000th
acre to complete the data collection.
Length of row equal to 1/1000th acre. An accurate estimate of plant population per acre can be
obtained by counting the number of plants in a length of row equal to 1/1000 of an acre. Make at
least three counts in separate sections of the field, calculate the average of these samples, then
multiply this number by one thousand (1,000).
Length of Single Row
Row Width to Equal 1/1000 of an acre
-----------------------------------------
(inches) (feet) (inches)
6 87 1
10 52 3
15 34 10
22 23 9
30 17 5
36 14 6
-----------------------------------------
Within a representative and uniform plant stand, randomly select five plants each from at least five
randomly selected locations in the field.
Keeping all plant data separate, pull and count the pods from each plant and then count the seeds
to determine average seeds per pod for all five replications. These data are combined with the
average number of plants per 1/1000th acre.
Average Number of
Seeds per Pound
--------------------------------------
Kidneys 900-1000
Pintos 1400
Great Northerns 1600-1800
Pinks/Small Reds 1600-2000
Navies/Blacks 3000
--------------------------------------
Seeds per pound can vary 10-20% for different varieties within a bean class. If available, use
reported estimates for seed number per pound for your variety.
The accuracy of yield estimate can be improved by counting seeds and pods from at least 10 plants
per replication.
Calculations
1. (Average seeds per pod) x (average pods per plant) equals average seeds per plant.
2. (Average seeds per plant) x (plants per 1/1000th of an acre) x (1000) divided by seeds per
pound of the variety equals yield in pounds per acre.
Estimates Program
Dry Edible Beans
Consists of acreage and production reports giving total United States and 17 individual state
estimates. The 17 states are California, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana,
Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin
and Wyoming.
Reports on acreage and production are released throughout the year. The following gives a
summary by individual reports. Estimates are total of all classes, unless otherwise indicated.
Planting Intentions released end of March each year.
J une Planted Acres released end of June and contains estimates on acres planted and
intended for harvest.
Planted Acres by Commercial Class are included in the August production forecast,
released around August 12.
Production Forecasts are made as of August 1 and October 1. Production forecasts
consist of adjusted acres for harvest, yield per acre and total production. Release dates are
around August 12 and October 12.
Production Estimate by Commercial Class in early December is an estimate of the
current year's planted and harvested acres, yield per acre and production, by commercial
class. The commercial class acreage, yield and production estimate are released around
December 9.
North Dakota County Estimates contain acres planted, acres harvested, yield per acre
and total production by county. County estimates will be available the middle of March
each year for the previous year's estimates. County data by commercial class is not
available.


Minnesota
Ag Statistics Service
8 East Fourth St., Suite 500
St. Paul, MN 55101
Phone: 612-296-2230


North Dakota
Ag Statistics Service
PO Box 3166
Fargo, ND 58108
Phone: 701-239-5306

Crop Rotation and Disease Management
Several disease-producing bean pathogens are either soil borne or borne on bean crop residue. A
three year crop rotation helps reduce carryover of most disease pathogens, including rust, bacterial
blights, most root rots and anthracnose. A four year rotation may be needed if white mold is severe
in a field. Crop rotation, although it helps to reduce disease carryover, is not a "cure-all" since many
pathogens can be air borne and may blow in from nearby fields. This is particularly notable in the
case of white mold and rust.
Some bean pathogens attack only beans; these include the bacterial blights, rust and anthracnose.
Crop rotation reduces populations of these pathogens. Field selection is also important: if possible,
avoid planting next to a field that was severely infected with rust last year.
Other pathogens, such as the Rhizoctonia root rot pathogen and white mold (Sclerotinia), attack
several crops (hosts), and crop rotation must take into account all crops that are host of the
pathogen. Specific considerations follow.
White mold attacks many broad leaved crops. Dry beans, sunflower and canola are among the
most susceptible. Other crops that are slightly less susceptible include soybeans, safflower,
mustard, lentils, and chickpeas (garbanzo beans). Crops which are moderately susceptible include
alfalfa, field peas, and potatoes. Flax and buckwheat are only slightly susceptible, and produce very
few of the survival structures called sclerotia. They are less liable to be severely attacked and less
liable to help maintain a white mold population than most other broad leaved crops. Sugarbeets
have not been attacked by white mold in Minnesota or North Dakota. Members of the grass family,
including small grains, corn and millet are immune to white mold and are good rotational crops for
dry bean disease management.
Rhizoctonia causes a root rot of dry beans. The same strains of Rhizoctonia that attack dry beans
also cause a severe root rot of sugarbeets, and can cause a root rot of soybeans. Including two of
these crops in a rotation is likely to lead to the buildup of Rhizoctonia. One of the Rhizoctonia
strains that attack dry beans, sugarbeets and soybeans also attack flax and lentils.
Dry Bean Fertility
Dry bean is responsive to fertilizer when soil levels are inadequate to support yield levels possible
with existing soil moisture and growing season climatic conditions. Soil testing is recommended to
determine the probability of crop response to fertilizer amendments. If soil levels are less than
adequate, dry bean may respond to nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K) and zinc (Zn) in
many Northern Plains soils. Soil test cores should be taken at 0-6 inch and 6-24 inch depths. N is
analyzed on both core depths, and P,K and Zn are analyzed on the 0-6 inch depth. Salt levels on
both depths may be analyzed if there is reason to suspect a salt problem. Soil pH may be
determined on the surface depth if iron chlorosis problems are anticipated.


Phosphorus
Phosphorus should be applied as recommended in Table 1. Soil test levels indicating medium
levels and lower would be expected to respond to P fertilizer. P fertilizer may be broadcast or
banded. Banded rates of P in the very low or low range may be reduced by one-third from table
recommendations since the broadcast recommendations also include extra buildup fertilizer useful
in long-term fertility programs. Reducing the rates will not result in long-term improvement of soil P
fertility but may increase short-term profitability in the current crop year.


Table 1. Phosphorus recommendations for dry bean.
Soil Test Phosphorus, ppm
--------------------------------
VL L M H VH
Bray Pl 0-5 6-10 11-15 16-20 21+
Olsen 0-3 4-7 8-11 12-15 16+
-----------------------------------------
lb/A -------- lb P
2
O
5
/Acre --------
1200 20 15 10 0 0
1400 25 20 15 0 0
1600 30 25 15 0 0
1800 35 25 15 0 0
2000 45 30 20 10 0
2200 50 35 20 10 0
2400 55 40 25 10 0
-----------------------------------------


Banded P should not be placed in contact with the seed. In fact, no fertilizer should be placed in
contact with the seed. The fertilizer band should be placed with at least 1 inch of complete
separation from the seed. A band 2 inches to the side and 2 inches below the seed is very
commonly used.
Potassium
Potassium is seldom required in most Northern Plains soils; however, a soil test should be analyzed
to determine the probability of response. Medium K level or lower may respond to K fertilizer. Lower
K levels may sometimes be found on sandy ridges within the region. The rate of K recommended at
different K soil test levels is shown in Table 2. K fertilizer may be broadcast or banded. Banded K
should not be placed with the seed. At least 1 inch of seed and fertilizer separation is required.






Table 2. Potassium recommendations for dry bean.
Soil Test Potasium, ppm
-------------------------------------
Yield VL L M H VH
Goal 0-40 41-80 81-120 121-160 161+
----------------------------------------------
lb/A ----------- lb K
2
O/Acre -----------
1200 35 15 0 0 0
1400 35 15 0 0 0
1600 40 15 0 0 0
1800 45 20 0 0 0
2000 50 20 0 0 0
2200 55 25 0 0 0
2400 60 25 0 0 0
----------------------------------------------


Nitrogen
Inoculation
Many legumes have the ability to fix N from the air without the use of commercial fertilizers if
inoculated with a nitrogen-fixing bacteria. The N-fixing bacteria for dry bean is called Rhizobium
phaseoli, and it is specific for dry bean. Inoculant used for soybean or pea are different and will not
infect dry bean. Unfortunately, the relationship between dry bean and Rhizobium phaseoli is not
strong. Dry, hot weather, short periods of soil water saturation, and cold weather, will all result in
sloughing off of nodules, so it may be difficult to achieve high dry bean yields consistently using
inoculation for an N source.
Dry bean seed is usually inoculated with a chemical used to control bacterial blight. Until recently,
many dry bean producers would not use an inoculation treatment because of the fear that the
chemical would also kill the Rhizobium bacteria. It was recently shown that at least some newer
strains or formulations resisted the seed treatment, and would produce greater nodule numbers
when inoculant was applied to seed immediately prior to planting. However, higher rates of soil N at
planting decreased the number of nodules on the plant. Therefore, the following guidelines are
suggested to determine whether to inoculate or apply fertilizer N instead.
Inoculate when
Yields 2,000 lb/acre represent realistic yield goals, and soil nitrate-N levels are 50 lb/acre or less.
Use fertilizer N only when
Yields greater than 2,000 lb/acre are consistently desired, or when beginning soil nitrate-N levels
are greater than 50 lb/acre.


Commercial N Fertilizer
Because of the inconsistency of inoculation in supplying season long N nutrition, N fertilizer is often
recommended. Table 3 shows the amount of N required for selected yield levels. The general
formula for these recommended levels is:
N recommended = Yield Goal X 0.05 less soil test nitrate-N to 2 ft., previous crop credit from other
legumes in the rotation and a sampling date adjustment if fall sampled before September 15 of lb
N/day.
Table 3. N recommendations for dry bean.
Soil N plus
Yield Goal Fertilizer N Required
---------------------------------------
lb/A lb/Acre 2'
1200 60
1400 70
1600 80
1800 90
2000 100
2200 110
2400 120
---------------------------------------
Some producers are reluctant to apply fertilizer N because of fear of white mold caused by
enhancing robust early growth. However, studies have indicated that higher susceptibility to white
mold is dependent on increased crop growth from either inoculation or N fertilizer. If the crop is
healthy enough to achieve a high yield level, it is susceptible to white mold damage if environmental
conditions are favorable for the disease, regardless of source of N. Recently developed upright
growth varieties, wider rows and crop rotation away from white mold susceptible crops may help to
reduce white mold infection and damage. Certainly, being prepared to apply fungicides at the
proper time is important in a higher yield environment.
Zinc
Dry bean is one of only a few crops in the region to regularly respond to zinc fertilizer in low zinc
soils. Soil test levels below 0.8 ppm may respond to fertilizer zinc application. Zinc deficiency may
be seen as bronzing, browning and death of leaf tissue, stunting, and poor vining. Zinc deficiency
may be treated by foliar sprays of zinc sulfate, zinc chelate or ammoniated zinc solutions. Zinc
deficiency may be prevented with preplant or planter treatments of zinc sulfate, zinc chelates or
ammoniated zinc solutions. A treatment of 3-5 lb/acre actual zinc preplant incorporated as zinc
sulfate may improve soil availability for several years.
Iron Chlorosis
Dry bean is generally more resistant to iron chlorosis than soybean, but it can still be observed in
some fields under certain conditions. Iron chlorosis is the yellowing of upper leaves of dry bean in
response to low soil iron levels, or more commonly, the unavailability of soil iron due to soil
conditions related to high soil pH, high levels of carbonate minerals and possibly high salts. Soil pH
levels higher than 7.0 may be accompanied by high levels of calcium/magnesium carbonates in the
soil. Carbonates dissociate in moist soils to form bicarbonate, which lowers the dry bean plant's
ability to take up soil iron. Wetter soils contain higher levels of soluble bicarbonate than dry soils.
Wetter soils may also contain higher levels of salts due to an increase in soil water table. The
combination of high levels of soil carbonates and salts has been shown to increase the level of iron
chlorosis symptoms in soybean. A similar relationship is also probable for dry bean. Iron chlorosis
may be minimized by planting varieties showing tolerance and having a higher tolerance to salt
damage. Iron sprays have performed inconsistently in the past but if used should be applied early in
the season for best effect. Late season spraying after about the third true leaf would reduce
effectiveness. Iron sprays of ferrous sulfate or iron chelates have been used with limited success.
Salts
Dry bean is very sensitive to salt damage. Levels of salt higher than 2 mmho/cm as a 1-1 soil water
extract begin to reduce yield expectations of dry bean. Salt levels are reduced by lowering water
table levels. This is difficult to do in exceptionally wet years. However, in more normal years, lower
salt levels are achieved by continuous cropping and introducing deep rooting crops into the rotation.
See NDSU Extension circular SF-1087 for more information.
Weed Control
The weed control suggestions in this production guide are based on the assumption that all
herbicides mentioned will have a registered label with the Environmental Protection Agency.
Herbicides should be used which are no longer registered or have not yet received registration for
dry edible bean. Dry beans treated with with a non-registered herbicide may have an illegal residue
which, if detected, could cause condemnation of the crop. Nonregistered herbicide use is illegal and
a user could be subject to a heavy fine even without detectable residue.
Chemical Weed Control Guide for Dry Edible Beans
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Roundup Ultra, Roundup Ultra RT, Glyphos (glyphosate)
$/A: 3.00-12.00
Rate: 0.5 to 2 pt of a 3 lb ae/gal conc. (0.19 to 0.75)
Weeds: Emerged grass and broadleaf weeds.
Apply: Preplant or anytime prior to crop emergence.
Remarks: A nonselective, translocated, foliar herbicide. No soil
residual activity. Refer to label for adjuvant use.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Eptam (EPTC) - Spring Applied
$/A: 12.00-19.00
Rate: 3.5 to 4.5 pt 7E, 15 to 20 lb 20G (3 to 4)
Weeds: Grass and some broadleaf weeds.
Apply: PPI
Remarks: Weak on wild mustard. PPI immediately after application. May
be tank-mixed with trifluralin, Sonalan, Prowl, Lasso, or
Dual to increase spectrum of weeds controlled. Consult label
for rate range for specific tank mix.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Eptam (EPTC) - Fall Applied
$/A: 20.00-25.00
Rate: 4.5 to 5.25 pt 7E, 20 to 22.5 lb 20G (4 to 4.5)
Weeds: Grass and some broadleaf weeds.
Apply: Fall: Incorporated after October 15 until freeze-up.
Remarks: Same as Eptam Spring applied.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Trifluralin
$/A: 4.00-8.50
Rate: 1 to 2 pt 4E, 5 to 10 lb 10G, 0.83 to 1.67 lb 60DF (0.5 to 1)
Weeds: Grass and some broadleaf weeds.
Apply: PPI: Fall or Spring.
Remarks: No wild mustard control. PPI within 24 hours after
application. May be tank-mixed with Dual, Eptam, Frontier
and Lasso.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Sonalan (ethalfluralin)
$/A: 5.00-17.50
Rate: 1.5 to 4.5 pt EC, 5.5 to 17 lb 10G (0.55 to 1.7)
Weeds: Grass and some broadleaf weeds.
Apply: PPI: Fall after October 15 or Spring. Spring incorporated
for EC only.
Remarks: The low rate should be used on coarse textured, sandy soils.
The high rate should be used on fine textured soils for
black nightshade control. Poor wild mustard control.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Sonalan (ethalfluralin)
$\A: 8.00-14.00
Rate: 7.5 to 12.5 lb 10G (0.75 to 1.25)
Weeds: Foxtail suppression.
Apply: Fall: Incorporated between October 1 to December 31 or Spring.
Remarks: Use in reduced or conservation tillage systems. Incorporate
twice at 2-3 inches deep using a V-blade undercutter or
rotary hoe at 5 mph. For fall applications, incorporate
once in the fall and once in the spring before planting.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Prowl (pendimethalin)
$/A: 8.00-12.50
Rate: 2.4 to 3.6 pt EC, 1.2 to 2.5 lb DG (0.75 to 1.5)
Weeds: Grass and some broadleaf weeds.
Apply: PPI only.
Remarks: Use higher rates on fine textured soils. Preplant
incorporation is required to provide more consistent results.
Refer to label for rotational restrictions. Can be tank-
mixed and applied PPI with Dual, Eptam, Frontier, Lasso,
Micro-Tech, and Partner.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Eptam (EPTC) + Sonalan (ethalfluralin)
$/A: 21.00-32.00
Rate: 2.5 to 3.5 pt 7E, 11 to 20 lb 20G + 3 to 4.25 pt EC,
11.25 to 16 lb 10G (2.2 to 3 + 1.125 to 1.6)
Weeds: Grass and some broadleaf weeds including eastern
black nightshade.
Apply: PPI
Remarks: Use low rate on coarse textured soils. Use high rate on fine
textured soils. PPI immediately after application. Weak on
wild mustard.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Dual II (metolachlor)
$\A: 17.00-26.00
Rate: 2 to 3 pt (2 to 3)
Weeds: Grass and some broadleaf weeds including eastern
black nightshade.
Apply: PPI or PRE
Remarks: Weak on wild mustard. Use low rate on coarse textured soils.
Use higher rate on fine textured soils high in organic
matter. Incorporation improves consistency of weed control.
Can be tank-mixed with Eptam, Prowl, Sonalan, and Treflan.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Frontier (dimethenamid)
$\A: 13.00-26.00
Rate: 16 to 32 fl oz (0.75 to 1.5)
Weeds: Grass and some broadleaf weeds including eastern
black nightshade.
Apply: PPI, PRE, or POST to third trifoliate.
Remarks: Same as Dual. Can be applied POST with Basagran and Pursuit.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Lasso (alachlor) RUP
$/A: 13.00-20.00
Rate: 2 to 3 qt (2 to 3)
Weeds: Grass and some broadleaf weeds including eastern
black nightshade.
Apply: PPI
Remarks: Same as Dual.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Basagran (bentazon)
$/A: 8.50-17.00
Rate: 1 to 2 pt (0.5 to 1)
Weeds: Wild mustard, cocklebur, Canada thistle, wild and volunteer
sunflower.
Apply: POST: Crop: Cotyledon stage or larger.
Broadleaf weeds: small seedlings.
Remarks: Thorough spray coverage is essential. Addition of oil
concentrate at 1 qt/A improves weed control. Canada thistle
control requires a second application 7 to 10 days later.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Basagran (bentazon)
$/A: 8.50/8.50
Rate: 1 pt/1 pt (0.5/0.5)
Weeds: Wild mustard, cocklebur, common lambsquarters, common ragweed,
Venice mallow, sunflower and suppression of kochia, annual
smartweed and pigweed.
Apply: POST: Apply as a split application. Apply the first
application at recommended growth stage of weeds followed by
the second application 7 to 10 days later.
Remarks: Basagran applied in a split application results in greater
weed control compared to single application. Refer to
narrative for recommended growth stage of weeds at first
application. Dry bean should be at unifoliate or first
trifoliate stage at application. Basagran should be applied
with oil additive at 1 to 2 pt/A or DASH HC at 0.5 to 1 pt/A.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Pursuit, Pursuit DG (imazethapyr)
$/A: 10.00
Rate: 2 fl oz 2S, 0.72 oz or 10 A/packet DG (0.5 oz)
Weeds: Wild mustard and control or suppression of black nightshade
and other weeds.
Apply: POST: Crop: After first trifoliate but before flowering.
Remarks: Reduced crop growth, quality, yield and/or delayed maturity
may result. Do not apply when stress such as cold and/or wet
conditions exist or are predicted with one week of
application. Crop damage disclaimer and liability waiver
from company representitve must be signed before use. Refer
to narrative for additional information.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Assure II (quizalofop)
$/A: 5.50-9.00
Rate: 6 to 10 fl oz (0.6 to 1 oz)
Weeds: Annual grasses and quackgrass.
Apply: Crop: 30 days or more prior to harvest.
Grass: 2 to 6 inches.
Remarks: Apply with oil additive at 1 qt/A to actively growing
grasses. Do not apply with vegetable oil additive. Can be
tank-mixed with Basagran. Grass control is reduced by
tank-mixtures or applications of Basagran in close interval.
The antagonism generally can be avoided by applying Assure II
1 or more days before or 5 to 7 days after Bansagran. Lack
of yellow foxtail control may result if Assure II is applied
at reduced rates or with Basagran.
Rates required for different grass species are:
Green foxtail 2 to 4 inches 7 fl oz
Yellow foxtail 2 to 4 inches 8 fl oz
Wild oat 2 to 6 inches 7 fl oz
Field sandbur 2 to 6 inches 7 fl oz
Wild proso millet 2 to 6 inches 5 fl oz
Volunteer small grains 2 to 6 inches 7 fl oz
Quackgrass 6 to 10 inches 10/7 fl oz
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Ultima 160 (sethoxydim)
$/A: 4.50-13.50
Rate: 10 to 30 fl oz Ultima (0.1 to 0.3)
Weeds: Annual and suppression of wild oat, volunteer cereals and
quackgrass.
Apply: Crop: 30 days or more prior to harvest.
Grass: 2 to 4 inches.
Remarks: See Assure II for use of oil additive and grass antagonism
from tank-mixing with broadleaf herbicides.
Rates required for different grass species are:
Green foxtail 1 to 8 inches 20 fl oz
Yellow foxtail 1 to 8 inches 20 fl oz
Wild oat 1 to 4 inches 20 fl oz
Field sandbur 1 to 3 inches 30 fl oz
Wild proso millet 4 to 10 inches 10 fl oz
Volunteer small grains 1 to 4 inches 30 fl oz
Quackgrass 6 to 8 inches 30/20 fl oz
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Gramoxone Extra (paraquat) RUP
$/A: 3.50-6.00
Rate: 1 to 1.5 pt (0.31 to 0.47)
Weeds: Desiccant
Apply: 7 days or more prior to harvest.
Remarks: Apply when at least 80% of the pods are yellowing and mostly
ripe with no more than 40% (bush type beans) or 30%
(vine type) of the leaves still green.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Leafex-3, Defol (sodium chlorate)
$/A: 12.00
Rate: 2 gal of a 3 lb/gal conc. (6)
Weeds: Desiccant
Apply: 7 to 10 days prior to harvest, after pods are brown.
Remarks: Thorough coverage of plant is essential. Apply in 5 to 10 gpa
by air or 20 to 30 gpa by ground.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------


Chemical Names, Formulations and Manufacturers
Trade Name Common Name Conc. Manufacturer
--------------------------------------------------------------
Assure II quizalofop 0.8 E DuPont
Basagran bentazon 4 S BASF
Defol sodium chlorate 6 S Drexel
Dual II metolachlor 7.8 E Novartis
Eptam EPTC 7E, 20G Zeneca
Frontier dimethenamid 6 E BASF
Gramoxone Ext. paraquat 2.5 S Zeneca
Lasso/others alachlor 4E, 15G Monsanto
Prowl pendimethalin 3.3 E Am. Cyanamid
Pursuit imazethapyr 2E, 70DG Am. Cyanamid
Roundup Ultra glyphosate 3 S Monsanto
Sonalan ethalfuralin 3 E DowElanco
Treflan/others trifluralin 4 E DowElanco/others
Ultima 160 sethoxydim 1.3 E BASF
--------------------------------------------------------------
Herbicide Comments
Eptam (EPTC) at 2.3 to 3.4 pt plus either Prowl at 1.2 to 3.6 pt 3.3E or 0.83 to 2.5 lb DG, trifluralin
at 1 pt/A of a 4 lb/gal concentrate or Sonalan at 1.5 to 4.5 pt EC/A or 5.5 to 17 lb/A 10G controls a
broader spectrum of weeds than either herbicide used separately, especially wild oat, common
lambsquarters, and eastern black nightshade. Eptam plus Prowl must be incorporated thoroughly
immediately after application by setting the implement at a 4 to 6 inch depth. The mixture allows
lower rates and reduces the chance of carryover from any dinitroaniline herbicide.
Sonalan (ethalfluralin), trifluralin, and Prowl (pendimethalin). Lasso at 2 to 3 qt/A PPI or Dual at 2
to 3 pt/A PPI or PRE controls annual grasses and some broadleaf weeds, including nightshade.
Dual may be tank-mixed with Eptam for wild oat control. Trifluralin, Prowl and Sonalan applied PPI
controls annual grasses and certain broadleaf weeds except wild mustard, common cocklebur, and
sunflower. The low rates should be used on coarse-textured, sandy soils. The high rates should be
used for control of eastern black nightshade. Incorporate in the top 2 to 3 inches of soil within 2
days of application. Trifluralin, Prowl and Sonalan are each registered as a tank-mixture with Lasso,
Dual, and Eptam. Sonalan has less soil residue but is more active than trifluralin.
Sonalan 10G at 7.5 to 12.5 lb/A 10G applied in the fall or spring suppresses foxtail in dry edible
bean and sunflower grown in reduced tillage systems. Apply in the fall between October 10 and
December 31, or in the spring PPI before planting. Apply to tilled land or standing or chopped
stubble. Incorporate twice 2 to 3 inches deep using a V-blade undercutter or with other implements
such as a rotary hoe that leave a maximum amount of crop residue on the soil surface. Operate
implements approximately 5 mph. The first incorporation should be performed within 48 hours after
application. The second incorporation should be performed at an angle to the first incorporation and
must be delayed at least 14 days after the first incorporation. Sonalan 10G applied in the fall should
be incorporated once in the fall and the second time in the spring before planting. Refer to label for
application rate according to soil type. The higher rate in the rate range should be used in high crop
residues and heavy weed populations.
Split Applications of Basagran in Dry Bean. Basagran can be applied as successive sequential
treatments for broadleaf weed control in navy, pinto, kidney and great northern types of dry bean.
The first Basagran application should be made before the weeds are 0.5 to 4 inches tall, depending
the weed species. Refer to label for information on weed sizes at application. Apply Basagran at 1
pt/A plus petroleum oil or Dash HC at 0.5 to 1 pt/A and then repeat the application 7 to 10 days
later.
Basagran applied as a planned split application program will offer improved broadleaf weed control
compared to a single application. Split applications will control common cocklebur, common
lambsquarters, annual smartweed, Venice mallow, and wild mustard. Control or suppression may
be observed on common ragweed, kochia, pigweed, and sunflower. NDSU research has shown
greater control of common lambsquarters, redroot pigweed and kochia by applying Basagran as
split treatments either twice at 1 pt/A, 3 times at 0.67 pt/A, or 4 times at 0.5 pt/A as opposed to one
application at 2 pt/A. Greater control of the above mentioned weeds was observed by using Dash
HC as opposed to a petroleum oil or ammonium sulfate.
Pursuit (imazethapyr) at 2 fl oz/A or Pursuit DG at 0.72 oz/A or 10 acres per water soluble packet
applied POST only controls wild mustard and provides suppression of nightshade in pinto, navy,
great northern, kidney, black turtle, cranberry type dry beans. Reduced crop growth, yield, and/or
delayed maturity may result from application. Do not apply if planting is delayed, or cold and/or wet
weather are present or predicted to occur within one week of application. Do not apply to Domino
variety black turtle bean. Pinto varieties UI-111 and Olathe are more sensitive to injury than other
Pinto varieties. Apply Pursuit with NIS at 0.25% v/v to dry beans having at least one trifolioliate leaf.
DO NOT use oil additives, liquid fertilizer or DASH.
Pursuit may control several grass and broadleaf weeds not listed on the label. Pursuit has
controlled mustard, nightshade, foxtail, pigweed, kochia, marshelder, Russian thistle, common
cocklebur, sunflower, smartweed, wild buckwheat, lanceleaf sage, common lambsquarters, and
common ragweed less than 1 inch tall in NDSU field trials. Soil residual from POST applications
may provide erratic control of subsequent flushes of weeds. Erratic control of eastern black
nightshade may occur from Pursuit reaching the soil during a POST application. However, reduction
in number and intensity of other flushes of weeds may be observed.
The following is the rotational crop guidelines after a Pursuit application: 9.5 months for corn, wheat
and dry bean, 18 months for barley, oat, rye, and sunflower, 40 months for sugarbeet, and 26
months for all other crops not listed.
Grazing restriction for dry beans.
Herbicide Restrictions
-----------------------------------
Pursuit Do not graze or feed
Ultima 160 No restrictions
-----------------------------------
Herbicide Carryover
The persistence of phytotoxic levels of a herbicide for more than 1 year can be a problem with some
of the herbicides used in North Dakota. Herbicide residues are most likely to occur following years
with unusually low rainfall because chemical and microbial activity needed to degrade herbicides
are limited in dry soil. Crop damage from herbicide residues can be minimized by applying the
lowest herbicide rate required for good weed control, by using band rather than broadcast
applications, and by moldboard plowing before planting the next crop. Mold-board plowing reduces
phytotoxicity of some herbicides by diluting the herbicide residue in a large volume of soil.
Moldboard plowing is effective in reducing the residual effects of trifluralin, Sonalan, Prowl, Nortron
SC, atrazine, and Lexone/Sencor.

Rotation restrictions for dry beans.
Herbicide Months after Application
----------------------------------------------
Accent 10
Ally 22a
Amber 22
Assert NCS
Atrazine b
Banvel (<0.25 pt/A) NCS
Banvel (>0.25 pt/A) SCS
Basis 8
Basis Gold 18
Broadstrike + Dual 4
Broadstrike + Treflan 4
Broadstrike Plus 10.5
Buckle NCS
Clarity (<0.25 pt/A) NCS
Curtail 12c
Exceed b
Far-Go NCS
Finesse b
Harness NCS
Hornet 10.5
Lexone 12
Matrix 10
Lighting 9.5
Peak 10
Permit 10
Pursuit 4
Scorpion III 10.5c
Sencor 12
Stinger 10.5c
Surpass NCS
Tordon (<1.5 fl oz/A) SCS
----------------------------------------------
NCS = Next cropping season
SCS = Second cropping season
a = Requires 22 months and 22 inches of annual precipitation
west of ND Highway 1 or 34 months and 34 inches of annual
precipitation east of ND Highway 1.
b = Do not plant until field bioassay indicates it is safe to
plant dry beans. Rotation to dry bean after atrazine is
rate and soil pH dependant.
c = Do not plant dry bean for 18 months after application on
soil with less than 2% organic matter and if less than
15 inches of rainfall during the 12 months following
application OR dry bean may be planted 12 months after
application if risk of injury is acceptable.

Management and Control of Nightshade
Nightshades have become a serious weed problem in ND. Human activity associated with crop
production is the greatest contributor to nightshade seed dissemination. Moving tillage and
harvesting equipment from field to field or planting crop seed contaminated with nightshade seed
easily spreads seed. Three different nightshades are found in North Dakota: eastern black
nightshade, hairy nightshade, and cutleaf nightshade.
Nightshade seed germination occurs in June through September and is influenced strongly by
moisture. Hairy nightshade germinating in early fall may produce viable seed before frost while a
black nightshade plant requires a longer growing season. Nightshade can compete in most crops,
including shaded canopy conditions. However, nightshade is visible after harvest where growth
accelerates from exposure to sunlight. Nightshade seeds become viable shortly after berry
formation and can remain viable in the soil beyond 10 years. NDSU studies show one nightshade
plant can produce 178,000 seeds. A nightshade plant was found to produce over 800,000 seeds.
Nightshades plants are frost tolerant, can remain green through the harvest season and can cause
serious harvest problems. Berries are poisonous and the juice from ruptured berries can stain crop
seed, glue nightshade seed and dirt to bean seed. Nightshade can be spread to other fields if
contaminated seed is used for planting. Dry berries are similar in size to soybean seed and are
difficult to separate from seed.
Rain and late season germination are major factors responsible for increased nightshade in ND.
Rain events cause multiple flushes of nightshade and late flushes may develop after normal crop
spraying is completed. Many herbicides used in crop production are applied early, before most
nightshade flushes emerge. Fewer rain events will reduce nightshade flushes. Nightshade can
compete in several environments including in a dense crop under shaded conditions. Nightshades
are immune to shading. Crops that canopy late and cultural methods of early planting, late
cultivation and wide row spacings allow nightshade to grow and develop faster than the crop.
Nightshade is tolerant to many herbicides including sulfonylureas. Herbicides remove other
broadleaf weeds, allowing nightshade to increase by eliminating competition. Residual herbicides
help control continuous nightshade flushes but few effective herbicides have residual activity on
nightshade.
Successful nightshade control requires allowing no seed production. Avoid planting crops
contaminated with nightshade seed. Plan a crop rotation where nightshade can be controlled.
Plant crops, such as small grains or soybean where effective herbicides are labeled for nightshade
control. Herbicides effective on small nightshade in small grains include Tordon, 2,4-D, Banvel,
Buctril, Bronate, and Curtail.
Herbicides used in soybeans and dry bean (only those labeled) for nightshade control are Eptam,
Lasso, Sonalan, Broadstrike + Dual, Broadstrike + Treflan, Cobra, Blazer, and Pursuit. Basagran is
more active on hairy nightshade than eastern black nightshade. Cobra and Blazer are effective only
on small nightshade. Most row crop herbicides, except Puruit and Broadstrike, do not have residual
activity to control continuous flushes of nightshade.
The residue can remain in the soil for more than one year, so long term crop rotation must be
planned if either of these herbicides are used.
Relative Herbicide Effectiveness on Weeds and Persistence in Soil
This table gives a general rating of relative herbicide effectiveness to weeds listed and persistance
of herbicides in soil. Under favorable weather conditions, control may be better than indicated.
Under unfavorable conditions, some herbicides rated as good or fair may give erratic and
unacceptable results. Also, dry and/or cool weather increases herbicide persistence while wet
and/or warm weather reduces herbicide persistence.
Weed control ratings in this section are based on the following scale:
E = Excellent = 90 to 99% Control
P = Poor = 40 to 65% Control
G = Good = 80 to 90% Control
N = None = No Control
F = Fair = 65 to 80% Control
Herbicide persistence ratings are for residues present 12 months after application:
O = Often
S = Seldom
N = None
Soil
Applied
Herbicides
B
a
r
n
y
a
r
d
g
r
a
s
s
F
i
e
l
d
S
a
n
d
b
u
r
F
o
x
t
a
i
l,
G
r
e
e
n
F
o
x
t
a
i
l,
Y
e
l
l
o
w
Q
u
a
c
k
g
r
a
s
s
V
o
l
u
n
t
e
e
r
C
e
r
e
a
l
s
W
i
l
d
O
a
t
W
i
l
d
P
r
o
s
o
M
i
l
l
e
t
H
e
r
b
i
c
i
d
e
P
e
r
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
e
Dual (PRE) G-E P G-E G-E N F-G G P N
Dual (PPI) F-G P G G N F P N N
Eptam (PPI) E G-E E E F-G G-E G-E F-G N
Frontier (PPI) G-E G G-E G-E N G F F N
Frontier (PRE) F-G G G-E G-E N F F F N
Lasso/others (PPI) G-E F G-E G-E N F-G F-G P-F N
Lasso/others (PRE) F-G P G G N F-G P P N
Prowl/Pentagon (PPI) E G E
1
E
1
N G G P-F S
Prowl Pentagon (PRE) E F G-E
1
G-E
1
N F-G P-F PF S
Sonalan (PPI) E G E
1
E
1
N G G P-F S
Trifluralin (PPI) E G E
1
E
1
N N F-G P-F S
PPI = Preplant Incorporated, PRE = Preemergence
1
Except where resistant populations have developed.
Relative Herbicide Effectiveness on Weeds and Persistence in Soil (continued)
Soil
Applied
Herbicides
B
u
c
k
w
h
e
a
t,
W
i
l
d
C
o
c
k
l
e
b
u
r,
C
o
m
m
o
n
F
l
i
x
w
e
e
d
K
o
c
h
i
a
L
a
m
b
s
q
u
a
r
t
e
r
s,
C
o
m
m
o
n
L
a
n
c
e
l
e
a
f
S
a
g
e
M
a
l
l
o
w,
V
e
n
i
c
e
M
a
r
s
h
e
l
d
e
r
M
u
s
t
a
r
d,
W
i
l
d
N
i
g
h
t
s
h
a
d
e,
B
l
a
c
k
P
i
g
w
e
e
d,
R
e
d
r
o
o
t
P
r
i
c
k
l
y
L
e
t
t
u
c
e
R
a
g
w
e
e
d,
C
o
m
m
o
n
S
m
a
r
t
w
e
e
d,
A
n
n
u
a
l
S
u
n
f
l
o
w
e
r
T
h
i
s
t
l
e,
R
u
s
s
i
a
n
T
h
i
s
t
l
e,
C
a
n
a
d
a
Dual (PPI) P N F F N N P G G-E P P-F P N F N
Dual (PRE) P N P-F P-F N N P G F-G P P-F P N P-F N
Eptam (PPI) F P P F F N N P P F-G G P F P N P N
Frontier (PPI) P N F F N P-F G-E E P P N P-F N
Frontier (PRE) P N P-F F N P-F G G-E P P N P N
Lasso/generics (PPI) P N F F N N P G G-E P P P N F N
Lasso/generics (PRE) P N P-F P-F N N P G F-G P P P N P-F N
Prowl/Pentagon (PPI) P-F N P G-E E N F-G N N P E N F P N G N
Prowl/Pentagon (PRE) P N P F-G G N F N N G N P P N F-G N
Sonalan (PPI) P-F P P G-E E N F-G N N F E P P P N G-E N
Trifluralin (PPI) P-F N P G-E G-E N F-G N N P E N P P N G N
PPI = Preplant Incorporated, PRE = Preemergence
1
Except where resistant populations have developed.






Soil
Applied
Herbicides
B
a
r
n
y
a
r
d
g
r
a
s
s
F
i
e
l
d
S
a
n
d
b
u
r
F
o
x
t
a
i
l,
G
r
e
e
n
F
o
x
t
a
i
l,
Y
e
l
l
o
w
Q
u
a
c
k
g
r
a
s
s
V
o
l
u
n
t
e
e
r
C
e
r
e
a
l
s
W
i
l
d
O
a
t
W
i
l
d
P
r
o
s
o
M
i
l
l
e
t
H
e
r
b
i
c
i
d
e
P
e
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Pursuit G P-F G F-G N G F P-F O
Roundup Ultra E E E E E E G-E E N
Ultima 160 E E E E G E G-E
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Herbicides will not control resistant biotypes.










Soil
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Ultima 160 N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N
1
Herbicides will not control resistant biotypes.



Weed Seedling Identification
Wild Buckwheat (46KB color photo)
Buffalo Bur (38KB color photo)
Cocklebur (56KB color photo)
Wild Mustard (28KB color photo)
Kochia (85KB color photo)
Pennsylvania Smartweed (46KB color
photo)
Common Ragweed (43KB color photo)
Black Nightshade (82KB color photo)
Pigweed (40KB color photo)
Velvetleaf (65KB color photo)
Barnyard Grass (57KB color photo)
Large Crabgrass (80KB color photo)
Wild Sunflower (53KB color photo)
Russian Thistle (70KB color photo)
Giant Ragweed (34KB color photo)
Giant Foxtail (22KB color photo)
Green Foxtail (28KB color photo)
Wild Oat (26KB color photo)
Yellow Foxtail (26KB color photo)
Wild Proso Millet (36KB color photo)
Field Bindweed (33KB color photo)
Yellow Nutsedge (19KB color photo)
Fall Panicum (16KB color photo)
Jerusalem Artichoke (47KB color
photo)
Hedge Bindweed (32KB color photo)
Perennial Sowthistle (39KB colorphoto)
Disease Identification and Management
Principles of Disease Management
Fungi, bacteria and viruses cause important diseases of bean. Diseases reduce yield and quality of
harvested bean and add to production costs. Diseases can be difficult to control, but management
practices can reduce their impact. Management practices can be grouped into three principles.
1. Keep Pathogens and Beans Separated. Observe geographic separation. The soybean
cyst nematode, which can also attack dry beans, occurs in central Minnesota. Do not bring
dry beans or soybeans from affected areas into bean growing areas.

Use high quality seed. Certified seed must meet certain quality standards with regard to
seed borne diseases. No seed is disease free, but certified seed produced under carefully
controlled conditions in the West or in the Northarvest growing area is the best way to
minimize the introduction of bean pathogens on the seed.

Use crop rotation. A rotation of three or four years is desirable, and longer rotations may be
required if disease is severe in a field. Avoid planting next to last year's bean field if
diseases were severe.

Avoid cultivating plants when wet. This helps prevent spread of pathogens, especially
bacterial pathogens.
2. Attack the Pathogen. Bury bean crop refuse by deep plowing. Foliar pathogens do not
survive well in the soil.

Scout fields for disease. Use early detection of disease to determine when to use a
fungicide. Records of disease and weed problems help in planning crop rotations.

Foliar fungicides help suppress disease development. Most fungicides protect against
infection but do not cure established infections. They should be used to prevent infection or
at the first sign of disease to prevent additional infections.

Use seed treatments to reduce early season damping off. Some seed treatments, including
streptomycin, captan and PCNB, may severely reduce the survival of Rhizobium nitrogen
fixing bacteria. These seed treatments may not be compatible with inoculation of the seed.
Some new strains of bacteria are less affected by seed treatment products. Another option
is to use an in-furrow inoculant.
3. Strengthen the Bean Plant. Plant disease-resistant varieties. Provide adequate soil
fertility, according to soil tests, and adequate trace minerals such as zinc. Avoid excess
nitrogen levels that stimulate lush plant growth. Control weeds. Plant in wide rows to help
foliage dry quickly, reducing disease potential. Use deep shanking near the planter row if
there is a hardpan. Handle seed carefully. Hill beans to stimulate lateral root development if
root rot is present, but avoid root pruning by close cultivation.
White Mold
Visual Aid (40KB color photo)
White mold is a sporadic disease which is most serious when wet weather occurs at flowering.
When the surface soil is wet, the hard black survival structures, called sclerotia, germinate to form
tiny mushroom-like bodies that liberate millions of wind-borne spores. These spores colonize dead
bean tissue, particularly the dead blossoms, then the fungus invades green tissues, causing a
watery soft rot. In wet weather infected tissues are tan colored and soft, with tufts of fluffy white
fungal growth. These tufts of "white mold" develop into hard black bodies, the sclerotia, some of
which survive many years in the soil. Leaves of infected plants turn yellow and wilt. In dry weather
affected stems have a bleached or whitish appearance. Infected seed is discolored, chalky and
lightweight.
White mold is favored by rainy weather before and at flowering, moderate temperatures and long
periods of high humidity, and keeping the lower canopy of plants wet more or less continuously for
up to two days.
Management. Crop rotation is important but of only modest value in areas of intensive bean
production, since the spores may blow in from nearby infested fields. Benlate and Topsin M are
registered for white mold control. They are more effective when applied before infection occurs.
Early bloom is the best time to apply these fungicides. Good canopy penetration is required so that
the blossoms and lower stems are covered with fungicide. The most economical method is band
application using drop nozzles, high pressure and high gallonage. High pressure broadcast
application is not quite as effective but can also be used when band application is impractical. Aerial
application using 7-10 gpa also can be effective. Widely spaced rows may help enhance drying in
the canopy. Upright varieties dry more quickly and may escape severe infection in years with
conditions that are marginal for white mold development. Deep plow infected bean crop refuse and
clean harvest equipment between fields. Avoid short rotations or rotation with other susceptible
crops, especially beans, sunflower, canola, lentils and soybeans.
Rust
Visual Aid (44KB color photo)
Rust is a very common disease and can lead to partial or complete crop failure. The rust fungus
forms pustules on the leaves and other plant parts. These pustules release a rusty-colored powder,
the summer spores, that are responsible for disease spread. These spores may be wind blown for
many miles. Infection occurs when the temperatures are moderate (60-75F) and the plant parts stay
wet for 10-15 hours. The infection cycle repeats every 10-14 days. Pustules break through the leaf
surface, opening up the interior of the plant to desiccation. Large numbers of pustules result in
plants drying out and dying even when there is good soil moisture.
Late in the season the rusty powder in the pustules is replaced with a black powder, the winter
spores. Both summer and winter spores overwinter on bean debris and can lead to infections next
spring. The winter spores produce an inconspicuous sexual stage that can lead to the development
of new rust races. The sexual stage often occurs on volunteer beans. The number of races has
been increasing in recent years, and varieties and classes of beans previously showing field
resistance may no longer be field resistant.
Management. Destroy volunteer bean plants in last year's bean fields to reduce early season rust
pressure and to retard the development of new rust races. Monitor fields carefully for rust,
particularly classes of beans known to be susceptible, such as pintos, pinks, small reds, and great
northerns. Other classes, however, may be attacked by new races, so all beans should be
monitored carefully. Protectant fungicides should be used as soon as there are two pustules per
leaf on susceptible varieties or there are a couple of "hot spots" in the field. Once rust is present in
an area, all susceptible varieties should be sprayed, even in fields where rust has not been
detected yet. No fungicide is needed once the lower pods of pinto beans begin striping. Fungicides
currently registered for rust control include chlorothalonil and maneb. Plow down infected crop
refuse shortly after harvest. Use crop rotation and avoid planting next to a field that was severely
diseased last year.
Root Rots
Visual Aid (37KB color photo)
Several fungi cause root rots, including Fusarium, Rhizoctonia and Pythium. Fusarium is the most
common, particularly in drought years. Fusarium produces a dry rot with indistinct brown lesions,
and occasionally a more general browning of the roots. Rhizoctonia is most common in warm moist
soils when beans are grown in rotation with sugar-beets or soybeans. Rhizoctonia causes more
distinct lesions that are chocolate-colored to dark red. Pythium develops in wet soils, causing a soft
brown rot that results in a hollow tap root. Plants with root rot may be stunted with yellowed leaves.
Infected plants form fewer pods and smaller seeds.
Management. Extend crop rotations beyond four years. Root rot is less severe following wheat. If
Rhizoctonia is present, avoid sugarbeets in close rotation. Some varieties are tolerant. Plant high-
quality seed. Deep shanking adjacent to the planter row can reduce damage. Cultivating soil to hill
up around stems can encourage lateral root development, but close cultivation may trim shallow
roots.
Bacterial Blights
Bacterial blights cause leaf and pod lesions, defoliation and shrunken discolored seed. All are seed
borne, can be spread by splashing rain and their spread is aided by storms that cause small
wounds in the leaves, allowing entry of bacteria into the leaf. All blight pathogens survive on bean
crop refuse. The brown spot pathogen also survives on weeds. Common blight is the most
prevalent of the bacterial blights but halo blight can be devastating.
Common blight lesions on leaves begin as small greasy green spots which later develop into large
brown areas surrounded by a narrow lemon-yellow border. Veins near the lesions are darkened.
Infected pods develop greasy green lesions with brick red margins. Pod lesions exude a yellow
ooze in wet weather. Seeds may be shriveled and discolored.
Visual Aid (44KB color photo)
Halo blight first appears as small water soaked or greasy green spots. These spots develop into
small dead spots. Nearby veins may be darkened. During cool weather the lesions are surrounded
by light green halos up to inch in diameter. Pod lesions are similar to those of common blight
except that they exude a creamy ooze in wet weather. Occasionally halo blight infections may
become systemic with stunted, yellow and malformed leaves. Plants also may be stunted.
Visual Aid (54KB color photo)
Brown spot first appears as small water soaked spots. These spots remain small, turn a reddish
brown and are surrounded by a narrow light-green halo. Nearby veins may be darkened. Pod
lesions are similar to those produced by halo blight.
Management. Disease management begins with prevention. Plant high quality seed which has
been tested for low numbers of bacteria. Plow down old bean fields to bury bean crop refuse and
use a three- or four-year crop rotation. Treat seed to suppress bacteria on the seed surface.
Streptomycin does not control bacteria that are borne internally in the seed. Avoid cultivation when
plants are wet. Copper fungicides are of little value for bacterial blight suppression.
Alternaria Blight
Visual Aid (30KB color photo)
This is a sporadic disease that may cause serious losses in some years. Irregular brown spreading
lesions develop, often with light tan to whitish centers. The outer margin of the lesion usually is dark
purplish to black. Lesions may be surrounded by a light yellow zone. After moist periods, the
undersides of lesions are covered with black spores that give the area a dark gray appearance.
Management. No effective control is known. The pathogen enters bean leaves and stems through
wounds. Alternaria is most severe after hailstorms and other events that cause wounding.
Damping Off
Severely infected plants die shortly after germination or emergence. Damping off also may be
suspected when there are gaps in a row where plants have not emerged or if plants wilt shortly after
emergence.
Management. Plant good quality seed. Cracks in the seed coat permit soil borne pathogens to
enter. Poor quality, weathered seed may rot in the soil before germination. Treat seed with a
fungicide.
Anthracnose
Visual Aid (23KB color photo)
Anthracnose is a potentially serious disease, but it is not common in the Northarvest area. Linear or
angular dark, brick-red to purplish-brown to black lesions or slightly sunken cankers appear on
veins on the lower leaf surface. Older lesions become darker, extend to the upper leaf surface and
proceed along the veins. Severe infection may cause leaf tip and edge burning or death of the
entire leaf and growing point. Pod lesions are sunken, circular, tan to rust-colored with a raised
margin surrounded by a thin zone of reddish tissue. Dark granular masses of tan spores develop on
the surface of pod lesions.
Management. Many varieties have resistance to certain races of the anthracnose pathogen. Plant
seed tested to be free of the pathogen. Use tillage to bury crop refuse after harvest. Use crop
rotation. Do not cultivate fields when plants are wet. Benlate, chlorothalonil and maneb are
registered for anthracnose control.
Bean Common Mosaic
Visual Aid (84KB color photo)
Bean common mosaic virus-infected plants are often stunted and spindly. Infected leaves have
irregular areas of yellowish tissues intermixed with areas of green. Leaves may be puckered,
twisted and elongated. Few pods are set and seeds are off-color and small. Plants are seldom killed
and yield loss depends on time of infection. Plants with the I gene for resistance to certain common
virus strains can be killed if infected when temperatures are high. This reaction is called "black
root." Certain other genes for resistance may provide resistance to many or to all strains of the
virus.
The disease is spread by infected seed, aphids and by plant sap contaminating wounds.
Management. Use high quality, virus-tested seed. Many varieties have resistance to certain strains
of the virus.
Fusarium Yellows
Initial symptoms are yellowing and wilting of lower foliage. Plants become stunted and leaf margins
die. Severely infected plants wilt permanently, lose their leaves and die. Vascular (water-
conducting) tissues are discolored. The Fusarium pathogen is soil borne and penetrates the roots
directly or through wounds.
Management. Use crop rotation, plant high vigor seed and use a fungicidal seed treatment.
Cultivate so as to promote good root growth.
Fungicides


Disease Control
3





Chemical Application
1
Dosage
2
Rust
Halo
Blight
White
Mold Remarks

Benomyl
Benlate,
50%
Spray or
fungigation
2 lb/A -
1
application
1.5-2 lb/A -
2
applications
(P-
F)
No G-E Use 2 sprays of benomyl for
white mold one at early bloom
and one at peak bloom (usually
7-10 days after early bloom). A
single band application of
benomyl may be used if
applied at 10-20% bloom.
Complete coverage of all parts
of plant is essential for control
of white mold. Do not apply
benomyl within 14 days of
harvest.

Chlorothalonil
Bravo 500
or Ensign,
40.4%
Spray or
fungigation
2-3 pt/A E No No Do not apply chlorothalonil
within 14 days of harvest. See
Circular PP-576, Dry Edible
Bean Diseases. Carefully
monitor fields for disease.
Evade,
40.4%
Spray or
fungigation
2 1/4 pt/A E No No
Bravo 720
or Echo 720,
or Ensign
720, or
Terranil 6L
54%
Spray or
fungigation
1.38-2 pt/A E No No Ensign registered for navy,
pinto and kidney beans only
(not pink, black turtle, small
red, great northern, etc.)
Bravo Ultrex
DG, 82.5%
Spray or
fungigation
1.25-1.8
lb/A
E No No
Bravo Zn,
40.4%
Spray or
fungigation
2-3 pt/A E No No Bravo Zn also contains zinc.
Terranil 90
DF WSP,
90%
Spray or
fungigation
0.5-0.67
packet/A
E No No

Copper
Basicop,
WP, 53%
Spray 4 lbs/A (F) P No
Champion
WP, 77%
Spray or
fungigation
1-3 lb/A (F) P No
Champ
Formula 2,
Flowable,
37.5%
Spray or
fungigation
0.66-2 pt/A (F) P No
Kocide 101,
77%
Spray or
fungigation
1-3 lb/A (F) P No
Kocide
2000, 53.8%
Spray or
fungigation
0.75-2.25
lb/A
(F) P No
Kocide DF,
61.4%
Spray or
fungigation
1-3 lb/A (F) P No
Kocide LF,
23%
Spray or
fungigation
1.33-4 pt/A (F) P No

Maneb
Maneb 80,
80%
Spray or
fungigation
1.5-2 lb/A E No Do not apply within 30 days of
harvest. Do not exceed 9.6 lb
ai/A per season of total maneb
products (12 lb/A of Maneb 80
or 12.8 lb/A of Maneb 75; 9.6
qt/A of Manex).
Maneb 75
DF, 75%
Spray or
fungigation
1.5-2 lb/A E No
Manex, 37% Spray or
fungigation
1.2-1.6 qt/A E No

Sulfur
Thiolux,
80%
Spray 3-10 lb/A G-E No No

Thiophanate-methyl
Topsin M
WSB, 70%
Spray or
fungigation
1-1.5 lb/A -
2
applications
1.5-2 lb/A -
1
application
(P-
F)
No G-E Use 2 sprays of thiophanate
methyl for white mold, one at
early bloom and one at peak
bloom (usually 7-10 days after
early bloom). The first
application of thiophanate
methyl should be applied at 10-
30% bloom (when 10-30% of
the plants have one open
blossom); a single application
of thiophanate methyl can be
used, if applied at 50-70%
bloom. Complete coverage of
all parts of plant is essential for
control of white mold. Do not
apply thiophanate methyl within
14 days of harvest.

Iprodione
Rovral, 50%
or Rovral 4
Flowable,
41.6%
Ground
spray
or
fungigation
1.5-2.0 lb/A
1.5-2.0 pt/A
(F) No G-E Apply at first bloom (10% of
plants with 1 open blossom)
and again at peak bloom, if
needed. Do not apply after full
bloom. Use 50-100 psi and 3
nozzles, 1 over the row and
one on each side. If pH of
spray water exceeds 7.0, buffer
it to pH 5.0-7.0.

1
Spray = ground or aerial, Fungigation = application through sprinkler irrigation system.
2
Dosage = Amount of formulated product to apply.
3
P = Poor; F = Fair; G = Good; E = Excellent; ( ) = Not registered for disease; No = No
control.
Non-Parasitic Disorders
Baldhead
Seedlings have no growing point. Cotyledons may or may not be attached; often they are broken. A
few weak stems may develop from the axils of the cotyledons. Roots may be damaged and grow
poorly. The problem is caused by mechanically damaged seed. Damage may be more severe on
navy than on pinto beans.
Management. Purchase high quality seed. Seed producers should thrash full windrows, harvest
when pods are limber and use low cylinder speeds. Carefully handle seed during conditioning and
shipping.
Bronzing
Upper leaf surfaces are covered with small golden-brown spots which makes the leaf appear
bronze in color. Bronzing is caused by ozone from industrial or urban pollution or meteorological
phenomena.
Chimera
Genetic abnormalities may occur in plants, resulting in variegated leaves with patches of green,
yellow and/or white tissue. Some branches or the entire plant may be affected. Pods also may be
affected. Cool temperatures (below 61F) for long periods during germination may increase the
frequency of leaf variegations.
Sunscald
Small brown patches appear between the main veins. These expand, often leaving large areas of
dead tissue between apparently sound green veins. Sunscald is most liable to occur when warm,
sunny and windy weather follows cool, cloudy and humid weather.
Insect Management in Dry Beans
In general, insects have not been a major production problem for dry beans in the region. However,
the potential does exist each year for certain insects to cause injury. The most important are
seedcorn maggot, potato leafhopper, cutworm, and green clover worm. Some insects, such as the
European corn borer, can be found in dry bean fields, but information on field scouting and possible
treatment thresholds is unavailable.
Estimating Damage
In dry beans, insect field scouting to assess insect populations is based on either the number of
insects per foot of row, insects per trifoliate leaf, or the level of defoliation.
Insects per foot of row is determined by shaking plants over the inter-row space, on which a strip of
cloth has been laid. Count the total number of insect pests per foot of row that fall on the cloth.
Insects per trifoliate is determined by selecting leaves and examining the under surface. It is
recommended that 35 leaves in each of three to five locations per field be examined.
Percent defoliation is determined by estimating the amount of leaf loss based on visual inspection
of randomly selected plants.
The growth stage of the dry bean plant is important. Under most conditions, moderate defoliation
early in the season has little effect on final bean yield. As plants reach the flowering and pod filling
stages,defoliation poses a greater threat to yield. For example, research indicates that the soybean
plant (similar to dry beans) can sustain a 35 percent leaf loss prior to the pre-bloom period. From
pod-set to maturity, the plant can tolerate only a 20 percent defoliation level.
Potato Leafhopper
Leafhopper management
The adult is wedge shaped and pale green in color. Adults are very active, jumping or flying when
disturbed. Nymphs are wingless. Both adults and nymphs will run backward or sideways rapidly.
Large numbers of adults may appear early in the season. Nymphs usually complete their growth on
the leaves near where they hatched, feeding on the underside of the leaf.
Damage by leafhoppers is referred to as hopper-burn. Foliage becomes dwarfed, crinkled, and
curled. Small triangular brown areas appear at the tips of leaves, gradually spreading around the
entire leaf margin.
Leafhopper threshold
The threshold for basing spray decisions is when an average of one leafhopper nymph per trifoliate
leaf is found. The nymphs are sampled by selecting leaves and counting the number present.
Sample for the presence of adult leafhoppers by using a sweep net. Do not let infestations and
damage progress to the point that yellowing of foliage is easily detected.
Aphids
Aphid management
The bean aphid has not been a major pest in North Dakota, though it can be found. It is nearly
black in color and 1/8 inch long. They feed along stems and the underside of leaves. Infestations
may result in a build-up of honeydew on leaf surfaces, promoting the growth of a black "sooty"
fungus.
Threshold
No guidelines for control have been established for North Dakota.
Potato Leafhopper and Aphids
Dosage in LB Product
Insecticide AI per Acre per Acre Remarks
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Asana XL* 0.03 to 0.05 5.8 to 9.6 Do not apply within 21 days
fl. oz. of harvest. Do not feed or
graze livestock on treated
vines.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Di-Syston G* 1 to 2 6-12 oz/1,000 Band treatment at planting
ft of row-any only. Avoid direct contact
row spacing with seed. Preharvest
interval, 60 days.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Dimethoate 0.25 to 0.5 0.5 to 1 pt. No preharvest interval. Do
EC (Cygon, not feed vines. To protect
De-Fend) bees, do not apply if crop
or weeds are in bloom. Do
not enter treated fields
without protective clothing
until sprays have dried.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Malathion 0.9 to 1.25 1.5 to 2 pt. Preharvest interval, 1 day.
57 EC
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Orthene 75S 0.5 to 1 0.66 to 1.33 Do not apply within 14 days
lbs.(dry of harvest. Do not feed
weight) treated vines.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Penncap-M* 0.5 2 pts. Do not apply within 15 days
of harvest. Read label for
bee precautions. Do not
enter treated fields within
48 hours after application.
Fields must be posted.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Thimet 0.9 to 1.4 4.5 to 7.0 oz/ Band treatment at planting
20 G* oz AI per 1,000 ft of only. Avoid direct contact
1,000 ft row - any row with seed. Preharvest
of row spacing interval, 60 days.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
*Restricted Use Pesticide

Armyworms
Armyworms are greenish-brown with longitudinal stripes. They are inactive during the day, resting
under plant trash, clumps of grass or lodged plants. They feed at night by crawling up on plants and
consuming foliage.
The armyworm moths migrate from southern states in late spring and early summer. The moths
prefer to lay their eggs in moist, shady areas, usually where grasses have lodged. Armyworms are
more of a problem in small grains and corn. Damage to dry beans can occur when their usual host
plants become depleted or are unavailable.
Threshold
Control of armyworms is recommended when 25 to 30% of the foliage is destroyed or if significant
injury to pods is evident.
Armyworms
Dosage in LB Product
Insecticide AI per Acre per Acre Remarks
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Carbaryl 1 to 2 rate varies by No preharvest interval.
(Sevin) formulation
used
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Orthene 75S 0.75 to 1 1 to 1.33 lbs. Do not harvest for 14 days.
(dry weight) Do not feed livestock
treated vines.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
*Restricted Use Pesticide


Bean Leaf Beetle
This beetle can vary in color from yellow to reddish brown and may have three to four black spots
with a black border on the wing covers. Adults emerge from overwintering, moving into bean fields
as the seedlings emerge. The white larvae develop in the soil, feeding on the roots and nodules.
New adults emerging in July feed on foliage and pods. The injury to pods results in secondary
infections by fungi and bacteria, causing rotting and discoloration.
Threshold
Due to low incidence of this insect in North Dakota, no local control guidelines have been
developed. Entomologists at the University of Missouri suggest treatment when 40 to 70% of the
bean plants show feeding injury on one or more of the pods per plant.
Bean Leaf Beetle
Dosage in LB Product
Insecticide AI per Acre per Acre Remarks
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Carbaryl 1 rate varies by No preharvest interval.
(Sevin) formulation
used
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Methoxychlor 1 2 qts. Preharvest interval 7 days.
2 EC
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Orthene 75S 0.5 to 1 0.66 to 1.33 Do not harvest for 14 days.
lbs. (dry Do not feed treated vines.
weight)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Cutworms
Most damage by cutworms occurs when bean plants are in the early stage of development.
Damage consists of young plants being chewed off slightly below or at ground level. Some cutworm
feeding injury may occur on foliage. Cutworms primarily feed at night. During the day, they rest in
the upper 2 inches of soil at the base of the plants. When checking bean fields for cutworms during
the day, dig down into soil an inch or two around recently damaged plants; there you can find the
gray to gray-brown larva.
Threshold
Treatment is warranted when one cutworm or more is found per 3 feet of row and the larvae are
small (< inch long).
Cutworms
Dosage in LB Product
Insecticide AI per Acre per Acre Remarks
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Asana XL* 0.03 to 0.05 5.8 to 9.6 Do not apply within 21 days
fl. oz. of harvest. Do not feed or
graze livestock on treated
vines.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Carbaryl 1 to 2 rate varies by No preharvest interval.
(Sevin) formulation
used
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Orthene 75S 0.5 to 1 0.66 to 1.33 Do not harvest for 14 days.
lbs.(dry Do not feed treated vines.
weight)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
*Restricted Use Pesticide


Green Clover Worm
Populations of this insect have been negligible in North Dakota and little treatment for control has
been required. The caterpillar is green with two narrow white stripes down the side. When mature,
the worms are 1 inches long. These caterpillars have only three pairs of fleshy prolegs on the
abdomen, plus the pair on the back tip. When moving, the worms move by arching the body. Young
worms scrape leaf tissue creating a transparent skin, or "window," on the leaf surface. Older clover
worms eat holes in the leaves.
Threshold
Control of clover worms is normally not warranted until 25 to 30% of the foliage is destroyed. This
usually requires an average infestation of 10 to 15 larvae per row foot.
Green Clover Worm
Dosage in LB Product
Insecticide AI per Acre per Acre Remarks
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Asana XL* 0.03 to 0.05 5.8 to 9.6 Do not apply within 21 days
fl. oz. of harvest. Do not feed or
graze livestock on treated
vines.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Malathion 0.6 8 oz. Preharvest interval, 1 day.
ULV
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Penncap-M* 0.5 2 pts. Do not apply within 15 days
of harvest. Read label for
bee precautions. Do not
enter treated fields within
48 hours after application.
Fields must be posted.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Orthene 75S 0.5 to 1 0.66 to 1.33 Do not harvest for 14 days.
lbs. (dry Do not feed treated
weight) vines.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
*Restricted Use Pesticide


Grasshoppers
In the northern plains, grasshopper egg hatch normally begins in late April to early May. Most
grasshoppers emerge from eggs deposited in uncultivated ground. Bean growers should expect to
find grasshoppers feeding first along bean field margins adjacent to non-crop sites where the
nymphs are hatching. Later infestations may develop when grasshopper adults migrate from
harvested small grain fields. Grasshoppers will attack leaves and pods, creating holes. Due to these
migrations, bean fields become sites for significant egg laying.
Threshold
Grasshopper control is advised whenever 50 or more small nymphs per square yard can be found
in adjacent, non-crop areas, or when 30 or more nymphs per square yard can be found within the
field. When 20 or more adults per square yard are found in field margins or 8 to 14 adults per
square yard are occurring in the crop, treatment would be justified. Defoliation levels may also be
estimated to determine the need for treatment.
Grasshoppers
Dosage in LB Product
Insecticide AI per Acre per Acre Remarks
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Asana XL* 0.03 to 0.05 5.8 to 9.6 Do not apply within 21 days
fl. oz. of harvest. Do not feed or
graze livestock on treated
vines.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Carbaryl 1 to 1.5 rate varies by No preharvest interval.
(Sevin) formulation
used
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Orthene 75S 0.25 to 0.5 0.33 to Do not harvest for 14 days.
0.66 lbs. Do not feed treated vines
(dry weight) to livestock.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
*Restricted Use Pesticide
Seedcorn Maggot
Seedcorn maggot attack bean seed, preventing sprouting or weakening the seedlings. The
yellowish white maggot is found burrowing in the seed or emerging stem. The adult flies emerge in
spring when soil temperatures reach 50
o
. They deposit eggs in soil where there is abundant organic
matter and decaying crop residue, or on the seed or seedling. Seed corn maggots are usually most
severe in wet, cold seasons and on high organic matter soils.
Threshold
When conditions are wet and cool, or when planting into high crop residue conditions, seed
treatments will provide the best defense against injury.
Seedcorn Maggot
Dosage in LB AI per Acre
Insecticide Product per Acre Remarks
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
diazinon see specific label Products currently available
for rates are: Agrox DL Plus, Germate
Plus, and Kernel Guard.
Treated seed must not be used
for, or mixed with food or
animal feed, or processed
for oil.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Lindane 30 C 0.70 fl oz/ Lindane treated seed must not
(Flowable) 100 lb seed be used for, or mixed with,
food or animal feed, or
processed for oil.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Lorsban 30 F 2.75 fl oz/ Lorsban treated seed must not
100 lb seed be used for or mixed with food
or animal feed, or processed
for oil.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Thimet 20 G* 4.5 - 7.0 oz/ Do not place granules in direct
1,000 ft of row contact with seed. Do not feed
bean foliage within 60 days of
harvest.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
*Restricted Use Pesticide

Other printed resources available through NDSU Extension Service
Extension Report #13 Dry Bean Grower Survey
NCR Ext Pub #198 Recognition and Management of Dry Bean Production Problems
Band and Directed Spraying
Band application is applying a chemical in parallel bands, leaving the area between bands free of
chemical. This reduces the area sprayed and substantially reduces the herbicide applied. Usually,
the weeds between the rows are controlled with cultivation.
Directed spraying is application of a pesticide to a specific area such as a plant canopy, a row, or
at the base of the plants.
Several nozzle configurations are often used when foliage penetration or row crop height present a
problem. Two- and three-nozzle configurations with drop nozzles between the rows usually give
better bottom leaf coverage than a single nozzle. This can be important with many fungicides.
Band Applicator Calibration
The same calibration methods as is used for broadcast spraying can be used to calibrate band
applicators. The only difference is the amount of area being covered. The main idea to keep in mind
is what is meant by an acre. Total acres refers to the entire acreage in the field. This would include
the sprayed band and the area between the bands. A treated acre refers only to the treated area in
the band. The spray that would be discharged on a broadcast rate is concentrated in a narrow band
by the ratio of the row spacing divided by the band width (see the following example). In band
spraying, the row spacing and the nozzle spacing are the same.
Unless otherwise specified, chemical application rates are given on a broadcast basis. For band
applications, the rate per treated area is the same as the broadcast rate, but the total amount of
pesticide used on a field is less because only a portion of the field is treated.
Spray discharge charts furnished by spray equipment manufacturers for band nozzles are usually
listed as applying chemical on a broadcast basis. The amount applied will increase when directed
into a narrow band as listed in Table 2.


Table 1. Seconds to drive 300 feet converted to miles per hour.
Seconds to Drive Seconds to Drive
MPH 300 feet MPH 300 feet
----------------------------------------------
1.0 204 8.0 26
1.5 136 8.5 24
2.0 102 9.0 23
2.5 82 9.5 22
3.0 68 10.0 20
3.5 58 10.5 19
4.0 51 11.0 18
4.5 45 12.0 17
5.0 41 13.0 16
5.5 37 14.0 15
6.0 34 15.0 14
6.5 31 16.0 13
7.0 29 18.0 11
7.5 27 20.0 10
----------------------------------------------


Table 2. Conversion factor to convert broadcast rate
(rate per total acre) to band rate (rate per treated acre).
Row Spacing (inches)
----------------------
Band Width 20 30 36 40
-------------------------------------
(inches)
8 2.5 3.8 4.5 5.0
10 2.0 3.0 3.6 4.0
12 1.6 2.5 3.0 3.3
14 1.4 2.1 2.6 2.9
-------------------------------------


Band Calibration
1. Determine travel speed in the field you will be spraying. Drive at a uniform speed and
measure the time to drive 300 feet.
2. Convert the time to travel 300 ft. to speed in MPH from Table 1.
3. Check for nozzle uniformity, and if variation is more than 10% from the average, replace the
nozzles. Use the following formula to determine the gallons per acre being applied on a
broadcast basis.
GPM x 5940
GPA = ---------------
MPH x w (in.)
Where: GPA = gallons per acre being applied
GPM = gallons per minute, the nozzle flow rate
MPH = travel speed in miles per hour
W = spacing between nozzles in inches
5940 = a constant to convert gallons per minute,
miles per hour, and nozzle spacing in
inches into gallons per acre.
4. The answer is the application rate per total acre.
5.
Rate/total acre(GPA) x row width(in)
------------------------------------ = rate per treated acre
Band width (in)
Example: In nozzle manufacturer charts, gallons per acre
means volume applied to the area sprayed (treated
acre). Depending on row spacing and band width,
this area is some fraction of the total field. The
following shows the higher volume discharged in a
treated acre when the broadcast rate is determined:
5 GPA measured with the broadcast calibration method
30-inch row spacing
10-inch band with
50 GPA x 30-inch row spacing
---------------------------- = 15 GPA being applied in the band
10-inch band width
Table 2 can be used to find the concentration effect of directing the spray from the broadcast rate to
band application. Multiply the GPA found on the broadcast basis times the factor in Table 2.
With 15 GPA being applied in the row (treated acre), MIX THE CHEMICAL IN THE SPRAY TANK
BASED ON THIS RATE. Do not mix it on the 5 GPA (total acre) rate or you will be applying
chemical in the row at three times the desired rate. If you do not want to apply water in the row at 15
GPA, a smaller nozzle would be needed. Refer to the charts in the nozzle manufacturers catalog.
Keep in mind that you are covering only part of the field with pesticide so you will be using less
chemical.
Irrigation
To achieve maximum yield potential, dry beans require 12 to 18 inches of soil moisture during the
growing season. When irrigation supplements normal rainfall to maintain optimum soil moisture
conditions, dry beans are capable of producing 150 to 300 pounds for each inch of additional water,
depending on bean class. Daily dry bean water use or evapotranspiration (ET) depends on the
stage of growth, local climatic conditions and available soil moisture. Plant architecture (Type I, II, III
and IV) will also affect the daily dry bean water use. Generally, the larger, bushier dry bean types
will use more water than the shorter, narrow types.
The frequency and amount of irrigation depends on the growth stage of the dry beans (which
determines the daily crop water use), the water-holding capacity of the soil in the root zone, and the
prevailing weather conditions.
Dry Bean Rooting Depth and Water Use
Dry beans are shallow rooted. Typically, in deep soils, roots grow laterally 8 to 12 inches and
downward to a depth of 3 feet or more. Root distribution is concentrated near the soil surface.
About 90% of the roots will be found in the top 2 feet which is considered the effective rooting depth
for irrigation purposes. Over the course of a growing season, only about 10% of the water used by
the beans will be obtained from the soil below 2 feet.
Average dry bean water use rates will increase from about 0.05 inches per day soon after
emergence to over 0.25 inches per day during pod development (Figure 1). The dry bean water use
amounts include the evaporation from the soil surrounding the plants. The water use is a depth
measurement because it is assumed that the dry beans remove soil water from under every square
foot of soil surface in the field.
Figure 1. Dry bean use and soil moisture management criteria. (19KB b&w image)

Water Holding Capacities of Soil
The depth and water holding capacity of soil has a great influence over when and how often
irrigations are required. Soil texture determines the amount of available water it will hold (Table 1).
Note that the greater the water holding capacity of the soil in the root zone, the less frequent the
irrigations should be. It is important to know the soil texture and water holding capacity of the
dominant soil type in a dry bean field and use that information for making irrigation decisions.


Table 1. Approximate available soil water holding capacities for
various soil textural classifications.
Available Moisture
---------------------------
Soil Texture Inches/Inch Inches/Foot
---------------------------------------------------------
Coarse sand and gravel 0.02 to 0.06 0.2 to 0.7
Sand 0.04 to 0.09 0.5 to 1.1
Loamy sand 0.06 to 0.12 0.7 to 1.4
Sandy loam 0.11 to 0.15 1.3 to 1.8
Fine sandy loam 0.14 to 0.18 1.7 to 2.2
Loam and silt loam 0.17 to 0.23 2.0 to 2.8
Clay loam and silty clay loam 0.14 to 0.21 1.7 to 2.5
Silty clay and clay 0.13 to 0.18 1.6 to 2.2
---------------------------------------------------------


Irrigation Water Management
It is desirable to have a soil profile that is near field capacity at planting, which will occur naturally
with normal winter snow and spring rainfall. Less than a full soil moisture profile to a depth of at
least 3 feet at planting could hinder root development later in the season. Also, stored soil moisture
in the root zone serves as a supplement during high water use periods.
Dry beans planted on shallow soils (12 to 18 inches of top soil) underlain by coarse sand and gravel
will have a reduced root zone. A reduced root zone will affect irrigation water management
decisions.
During the period prior to flowering and the period after the majority of the pods are full, dry beans
are relatively drought tolerant. They can withstand 50 to 60% soil water depletion without a
significant impact on yields (Figure 1). However, during the flowering and pod development period,
soil moisture levels in the root zone should not be depleted more than 50% (preferably 40%) to
achieve maximum yields.
The first irrigation should be applied when the soil moisture is between 50 and 60% depleted after
emergence. With normal rainfall this should take the beans almost to flowering. After flowering,
irrigate before the soil moisture profile reaches 50 percent depletion.
Dry beans will mature early if ample moisture is available during the vegetative growth stage (pre-
flowering) and if the last irrigation occurs when the first pods are filling. Late season irrigations can
delay maturity. If the beans have begun to dry, irrigation will not be needed because the beans are
no longer removing much water from the soil profile.
Most center pivots are managed to apply from 0.5 to 1 inch of water per revolution; therefore, during
flowering it is critical that the soil moisture profile be monitored frequently, or it may be difficult to
keep up with dry bean water use during periods of high temperatures and wind.
Here are some tips for good irrigation management of dry beans:
1. Irrigations may need to be scheduled to minimize disease problems rather than maximize
yield.
2. Irrigate at night, if possible, and let foliage dry during the day to reduce disease problems.
3. Maturity may be delayed up to 15 days by letting the soil get too dry after planting and yield
potential will also decrease.
4. Avoid excessive dry soil levels during the flowering stage. The shock of watering dry soil
can cause flowers to fall off the plant.
5. Do not irrigate when lower foliage on the plant is still wet from rainfall or irrigation.
6. To avoid aiding the development of white mold, do not use light, frequent irrigations.
The plants and soil surface become just as wet with a light irrigation as with a 1 inch
application. Dry beans respond best in soils with adequate oxygen present.
7. Late season irrigations may delay the final maturity date.
Irrigations can be terminated when at least 80% of the pods show yellowing and are mostly ripe.
Another indicator of when to terminate irrigations is when 50% of the leaves are yellowing on the
plant.
Irrigation Scheduling
Determining when to start and stop an irrigation system is a very important part of irrigation water
management. Soil in the root zone is the reservoir that stores the water for use by the dry beans.
Soil moisture levels in the root zone determine the criteria for when to start and stop irrigations.
There are several soil moisture monitoring tools available to determine the soil moisture level at a
particular time and place.
Direct soil moisture measurement can be done several ways. The "soil feel" method is the most
widely used. It involves using a soil probe to obtain a soil sample from a certain depth in the root
zone then determining the amount of soil moisture by squeezing the soil in the palm of your hand.
To be accurate using the soil feel method requires considerable experience with a variety of soil
textures.
Soil moisture can also be measured with mechanical devices such as tensiometers and soil
moisture blocks. When these are used, one or more of these devices are buried at different levels in
the root zone. The amount of soil moisture is determined by either reading a gage or using a
portable meter. These devices only indicate the soil moisture status at that particular location.
Electronic methods which measure soil moisture levels based on the changes in measurable
electronic properties of the soil are also available.
Using just soil moisture measurement for irrigation scheduling can create more work during the
growing season for the irrigation manager. Soil moisture measurements must be made two or three
times during the week and at several locations in the field.
Another form of irrigation scheduling is to use estimated dry bean water use figures. This method,
sometimes called the "crop water use replacement method," is based on obtaining daily estimates
of dry bean water use and measuring rainfall amount. Irrigations are scheduled to replace the
amount of soil moisture used by the dry beans minus the amount of rain received since the last
irrigation. Estimations of water use for dry beans based on maximum daily temperature are shown
in Table 2.
Table 2. Average dry bean water use based on maximum daily air temperature,
week after emergence and growth stage (inches/day).
Week After Emergence 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
Date

Maximum Temperature

50-59 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.05 0.06 0.08 0.08 0.08 0.08 0.08 0.08 0.07 0.05
60-69 0.04 0.05 0.06 0.08 0.11 0.13 0.14 0.14 0.13 0.13 0.13 0.11 0.08
70-79 0.05 0.06 0.09 0.12 0.15 0.18 0.19 0.19 0.19 0.18 0.17 0.15 0.11
80-89 0.06 0.08 0.11 0.15 0.19 0.23 0.25 0.25 0.24 0.23 0.22 0.19 0.14
90-99 0.08 0.10 0.14 0.18 0.23 0.28 0.30 0.30 0.29 0.29 0.27 0.24 0.17
at week #4: 4 Leaf
at week #5: Auxiliary Bud
at week #6: Flower
at week #8: Podding
at week #10: Initial Strip
at week #11: Leaf Yellow
after week #13: Maturity
The best choice of tools for irrigation scheduling is a combination of in-field soil moisture
measurement and a recorded daily soil water accounting procedure. This method, called the
"checkbook" method, has also been used successfully for many years in Minnesota and North
Dakota. The checkbook method is a soil moisture accounting method which uses daily dry bean
water use values and the soil water-holding capacity to predict the time and amount of water
needed to replenish what has been removed from the root zone since the last irrigation or rain. A
bulletin on irrigating using the checkbook method is available from any county extension office in
Minnesota and North Dakota.
Harvesting Dry Beans
Dry bean harvesting operation is done by one of two ways; undercutting, windrowing and combining
from the windrow, and straight combining. Dry beans should be harvested at the 15 to 18%
moisture level to minimize splitting and seedcoat damage. Harvesting at lower moisture levels may
result in an excessive percentage of split beans and checked seedcoats. Beans with checked
seedcoats may split with further handling.
Harvest dry beans before a killing frost. Frozen immature beans are difficult to separate in
processing, while unfrosted immature bean seeds will shrink during drying and can be separated.
Dry beans are ready for harvest when some of the pods are dry and when the majority of pods have
turned yellow. The nearly mature dry beans in the yellow pods will continue to ripen after they are
cut. Too many dry pods at harvest will result in heavy shattering. Dry bean cutting and windrowing
should be done at night or early in the morning when the plants are damp with dew. All bean types,
but especially whites, require a harvest period relatively free from rain to avoid seed discoloration.
Cutting and Windrowing
Dry beans may be undercut and windrowed in two separate operations or as a single operation.
Blade type undercutters knife the plant root 1 to 2 inches below the soil surface. The rodding
operation uses a bean rod to lift the plants from the soil. The number of rows to be placed in one
windrow will depend on the density of the crop and the size of combine used. Leave beans in the
windrow only long enough for the lower stem and attached row parts to dry sufficiently for
combining.
Bush type beans may be harvested with a straight-cut attachment on a combine. It is usually best to
use the flexible cutterbar and pickup reel. These operate much closer to the soil and save
considerably more seed. Most field loss is caused by pods being cut by the cutterbar or operating at
an incorrect speed. Recent equipment developments include replacing or supplementing the pickup
reel with an air reel to help move plants across the cutterbar. Research has shown that field losses
with conventional straight cut type headers can range from 20 to up to 40% of the yield. Grower
experiences with direct cut headers suggest that the addition of an air reel and supplemental lifter
guards to a flexible cutterbar can reduce loss to 5 to 10% of yield.
Harvest Losses with Conventional Harvest Systems
Harvest losses reduce net income and increase problems with volunteer beans the following
season. A survey of 21 fields in Nebraska found that total harvest losses averaged 4% of yield, but
ranged from less than 1% to over 12%. Careful operators consistently maintained harvest loss
below 3% of yield. The study also found that about 60% of the total harvest loss occurred during the
combining operation, with about half of this loss attributed to header loss and half to threshing loss.
The remaining 40% of harvest loss was equally divided between the cutting, windrowing or rodding
operations.
Combine Operation
Grain combines are frequently used for harvesting edible beans but growers with large acreages
often use special bean combines. They usually have two cylinders specifically designed for bean
threshing and special separating and cleaning units. These special combines do not contain augers
and usually move beans with conveyor belts or bucket elevators.
Conventional combines with rasp bar cylinders work well for beans and the new type rotaries are
very good. Rotaries tend to cause less impact on the seed and less seed crackage. Tests have
shown significantly lower cracked and broken beans as compared to conventional combines.
Rotary combines should be equipped with specialty dry bean rotors and the appropriate threshing
bar configuration to provide optimum threshing and separation.
Combining should begin when beans reach 18% moisture content. Combine cylinders should be
run only fast enough to do a complete threshing job. Some machines may need special speed
reducers to obtain proper speed. High cylinder speeds and allowing the seed to become too dry
substantially increase seed cracking and splitting. When beans are at 18% moisture, the cylinder
should be operating at a speed as recommended in the operator's manual. It is difficult to give one
cylinder speed, as diameters of cylinders and rotors vary from 17 inches up to 30 inches in
diameter. It is usually best to set cylinder speed as slow as possible and check to be sure that pods
are threshed to allow bean removal. Excessive cylinder speeds will cause excessive splits and
checking.
It is usually desirable to reduce the cylinder speed as the day progresses to compensate for
additional drying. Maintain as large a concave clearance as possible and still do a good job of
threshing. As beans dry down, cylinder or rotor to concave settings should be increased. Check
your operator's manual for recommended cylinder speed and concave setting. Manufacturer's
recommendations apply to average or normal conditions and may require variation to meet specific
field conditions.
It may be necessary to harvest only in the morning and evening when the pods are tough in order to
hold shattering losses to a minimum and reduce the number of split beans and checked seedcoats.
Crowd the combine cylinder to near maximum capacity without overloading. To do this, either use a
faster travel speed or put more rows in the windrow. The additional straw going through the
threshing mechanism will help cushion the beans and prevent damage.
Set the adjustable chaffer at 5/8 inch and the sieve at 7/16 inch. This should allow the threshed
beans and some hulls to fall through the chaffer, and the cleaning sieve will allow only threshed
beans to fall through to the grain auger. Use a relatively high fan speed and direct the blast toward
the forward one-third of the cleaning shoe. Check your operator's manual for specific
recommendations. Check the tailings return periodically to note the quantity and composition of the
material being returned to the cylinder for rethreshing. Any appreciable quantity of threshed beans
in the tailing return indicates that the adjustable chaffer is set too tight. Completely threshed beans
returning through the auger for rethreshing will increase the amount of split beans and checked
seedcoats.
Check the grain tank for dirt and foreign material and for beans that are split or have checked
seedcoats. Excess dirt and chaff generally indicate that the adjustable sieve is adjusted too wide or
that the fan blast is inadequate or improperly directed.
Excessive checks and splits generally indicate one or more of the following:
1. The cylinder speed is too high.
2. The cylinder concave clearance is too small.
3. Too many concave bars or grates are being used.
4. Too many completely threshed beans are being returned through the tailings system.
Most combine manufacturers have a number of optional accessories available for use on beans.
These usually are bean sieves, screens placed in the grain pan and along elevator tubes. These
help to remove dirt and foreign material from the beans.
Always handle field beans gently. Avoid dropping beans from great heights in unloading and
handling. Beans check and crack when dropped, particularly on hard surfaces and when dry.
Cushion or deflect the fall of beans whenever possible. Keep elevator flight chains snug so that
flights do not ride on beans.
Measurement of Harvest Loss
Measuring field loss during harvest is relatively easy. Harvest losses can cost the grower thousands
of dollars if the problem persists over many acres. Five simple steps can provide a good harvest
loss estimate:
Locate three random sites in the field
At each site, outline an area that is 1 ft. in the direction of equipment travel and is as wide
as the effective width of the implement. For example, if a combine is picking up windrows
containing 12 30-inch rows, the width of the measurement area should be 30 feet. Examine
the entire width of the implement pass, not just behind the threshing section of the combine
where loss can be concentrated.
Search the soil surface and through any soil loosened by harvest implements within the
outlined area for seeds and unthreshed pods. Count all bean seeds.
Divide the number of seeds found by the number of square feet within the outlined area.
This will provide the average number of bean seeds lost per square foot. Take an average
of the three areas sampled within the field.
Use Table 1 to convert average number of seeds lost per square foot to pounds of seed lost
per acre for specific seed sizes.
For example, if a sampled area over the full effective width of an implement pass averaged 1 pinto
bean seed per square foot, the field loss would be approximately 36 lb/A, assuming 1200 seeds/lb.
To extrapolate to 3 seeds/ sq. ft. for the same seed size of 1200 seeds/lb, one could multiply 3 by
1.0 by 36 lb/acre = 108 lb/acre field loss.


Table 1. Field loss based on the average number of
seeds lost per square foot of soil and seed size of the
variety harvested.
Average no. of seeds
lost per square foot
--------------------------------
Seed Size 0.5 1.0 5.0 10.0
-------------------------------------------
Seed/lb -- pounds/acre field loss --
800 27 55 272 545
1200 18 36 182 363
1600 14 27 136 272
2000 11 22 109 218
2400 9 18 91 182
2800 8 16 78 156
------------------------------------------


Use the following information to estimate the number of seeds per pound for the specific market
class of the harvested bean:
Market Class Seeds per Pound
-----------------------------------
Kidney 800-1000
Pinto 1200-1400
Great Northern 1400-1800
Pink/Small Red 1600-2000
Navy/Black 2400-2800
-----------------------------------
Drying, Storing, and Handling Dry Edible Beans
The recommended storage moisture content is the moisture content that will permit storage without
deterioration exceeding acceptable quality. It will depend on the length of the desired storage period
and the temperatures during storage.
There are limited studies on the allowable storage time of edible beans, but the results from corn
can be used to estimate the storage moisture content and storage time for edible beans. The
equilibrium moisture content of edible beans is similar to corn, so expected recommended storage
moisture contents should be similar.
The maximum allowable storage time for 18% moisture corn at 50 degrees is 3.4 months. Cooling
the 18% moisture corn to 40 degrees extends the maximum storage period to about 6.1 months.
Therefore, edible beans can be stored at 18% moisture content during the fall and winter if they are
cooled with an aeration system so they are no warmer than 50F in October and 30 degrees in
November.
Lower moisture contents should be used if longer storage periods are desired or the beans cannot
be cooled to the specified temperatures. Corn at 16% moisture is expected to store for about nine
months at 60F, which is the basis of the 15.5% moisture content recommendation during fall
through spring. A moisture content of 16% should normally be considered the maximum
recommended short term storage moisture content for edible beans.
For long-term storage the moisture content must be low enough to permit storage without
deterioration at typical summer temperatures. For example, the recommended long-term storage
moisture content for wheat is normally at about 13%. This keeps the relative humidity in the wheat
below 65% at 70 degrees, which limits mold growth. The recommendation for edible beans is also
about 13% based on the same considerations.
If the beans can be kept cooler, the acceptable moisture content can be increased. If the beans can
be kept at 60F or cooler, the moisture content can be 14% for long term storage.
It is important to follow good storage management practices such as measuring the temperature
and moisture content of the beans at least monthly. Whenever there is more than a 10 degree
differential between the average outdoor temperature and the bean temperature during the fall, the
beans should be cooled with aeration. This should continue until beans at 16% moisture are cooled
at least to 40F and 18% moisture beans are cooled to about 30F. Cooling below 30 degrees is
not necessary and may increase the potential for handling damage.
Edible beans require special care when drying with a high temperature column dryer. The relative
humidity of the drying air should not be lower than about 30% when drying Navy beans. Normally
the drying should occur with the air heated less than about 20F above the outdoor air
temperature, to keep the relative humidity above 30%. The beans need to be monitored
continuously to assure that the beans are not being damaged. Other beans are best dried with no
supplemental heat.
Natural air drying will work well for drying edible beans during mid-September to mid-October in
North Dakota. Based on average climatic conditions the beans should dry to about 14% moisture.
Shutting fans off during the warmest part of the day will raise the final moisture content but lengthen
the drying time. Shutting fans off during periods of higher humidity, such as night, will reduce the
final bean moisture content. Recommended minimum airflow rates for various moisture contents
and the corresponding estimated drying times are shown in the following table.
Minimum recommended airflow rates and estimated drying times for
dry edible beans using a natural air drying system from Mid-September
to mid-October in North Dakota.
Moisture Content Airflow Rate Drying Fan Time
----------------------------------------------------
cfm/bu cfm/cwt days
22% 2.5 4.2 23
21% 1.6 2.7 30
2.0 3.3 24
20% 1.5 2.5 28
2.0 3.3 22
19% 1.5 2.5 28
2.0 3.3 22
----------------------------------------------------
There is no information available on the static pressure associated with moving air through edible
beans, so design the drying system using the data for shelled corn.
Dry edible beans are fragile, so they must be handled with care. Beans become more susceptible to
handling damage at lower moisture contents and cold temperatures. Do not warm beans above 50
degrees, since allowable storage time is reduced by about 50% for each 10 degree temperature
increase. Belt conveyors are preferred due to their gentleness in conveying. Drop heights must be
limited. A bean ladder should be used inside storage bins to reduce impact damage. The speed of
auger rotation should be reduced and augers operated "full" to minimize damage. Elevator legs
need to be adapted for handling beans, including reducing the discharge velocity and utilizing a
method of gently slowing the beans at the bottom of spouts.
For more information request the following publications
AE-701 Grain Drying
AE-791 Crop Storage Management
EB-35 Natural Air - Low Temperature Crop Drying



Contributors to Dry Bean Production Guide
Duane Berglund, Agronomist, NDSU Extension Service
Tim Courneya, Northarvest Bean Growers Association
David Franzen, Soil Science Specialist, NDSU Extension Service
Phillip Glogoza, Entomologist, NDSU Extension Service
Kenneth Hellevang, Agricultural Engineer, NDSU Extension Service
Vern Hofman, Agricultural Engineer, NDSU Extension Service
Bill Kuntz, Seed Certification Specialist, N.D. State Seed Department
Art Lamey, Plant Pathologist, NDSU Extension Service
Thomas Scherer, Agricultural Engineer, NDSU Extension Service
Richard Zollinger, Weed Specialist, NDSU Extension Service



Bean Directory
Plant Diagnostic Labs
Plant Diagnostic Lab
Waldron Hall Rm. 206
North Dakota State University
Fargo, ND 58105
Phone:701-231-7854
Plant Disease Clinic
495 Borlaug Hall
1991 Buford Circle
St. Paul, MN 55108
Phone:612-625-1275
Seed Testing Labs
State Seed Dept.
P.O. Box 5257
Fargo, ND 58105
Phone:701-237-7927
State Seed Lab
Dept. of Agriculture
90 West Plato Blvd.
334-6360
St. Paul, MN 55107
Phone:612-296-6123
Northarvest Bean Growers Association
RR 3 Box 520
Frazee, MN 56544
Phone:218-334-6351Fax:218-334-6360
Extension Offices
North Dakota State University
Plant Sciences 701-231-8135
Economics 701-231-7393
Engineering 701-231-7236
Entomology 701-231-7581
Plant Pathology 701-231-7056
Soils 701-231-8884
University of Minnesota
Agronomy 612-625-8700
Economics 612-625-1226
Engineering 612-625-9733
Entomology 612-624-9272
Plant Pathology 612-625-6290
Soil Science 612-625-5797
Ag Statistics Services
North Dakota Ag Statistics Service
PO Box 3166
Fargo, ND 58108
Phone:701-239-5306
Minnesota Ag Statistics Service
8 East Fourth Street Suite 500
St. Paul, MN 55101
Phone:612-296-2230



Dry bean production across the U.S. (18KB b&w image)