Evaluation of different Pole French Bean genotypes in Lamjung, Nepal

Background: Yield, being a quantitative trait, is influenced by multiple yield-related traits and environmental factors. The objective of this research is to have an effective comparison of the different released, registered, popular, and local bean varieties at different growth stages, as well as to determine their yield potential for commercial production in Sundarbazar, Lamjung, and similar mid-hill conditions. Methods: Consequently, twelve varieties of pole-type French bean, viz., Trishuli, Chaumase, Semi Light Long, Green Long Bean, LB-31, LB-37, Madhav, Chinese Long, Rato Makai Simi, Khairo Makai Simi, Kalo Makai Simi, and Kalo Simi, were evaluated in a randomized complete block design with three replications at the Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science (IAAS), Sundarbazar, Lamjung, Nepal. Results: The varieties under study showed significant differences in morphological, phenological, and yield parameters. Semi Light Long had the highest pod number per plant (44.76), yield per plant (289.13 g), and yield per plot (5726.83 g), at par with Chaumase Simi for pod number per plant (42.03) and yield per plant (244.48 g). The highest pod weight was observed in LB-31 (6.75 g) at par with Semi Light Long (6.38 g), Green Long Bean (6.33 g), Chinese Long (5.96 g), Madhav (5.94 g), and Chaumase (5.76 g). Kalo Simi had the earliest flowering (41 DAS), the earliest harvest (67 DAS), and the greatest harvest duration (16 days). Green long bean had the highest plant height (187.64 cm), at par with Semi Light Long (178.23 cm) and LB-31 (174.31 cm), and the highest pod length (13.98 cm) at par with LB-31 (13.82 cm). Conclusion: Based on the results obtained, Semi Light Long would be the best variety to recommend for commercial cultivation in Sundarbazar, Lamjung, and other similar mid-hill environments.