The Effect of Minimum Tillage and Herbicide Use on Bean Production

Abstract

A two-year study on the research farm of the University of Nairobi, Kabete, suggested a need to identify adequate weed control methods for bean production under the minimum tillage system. Although alachlor and metolachlor at the highest rates tested effected some weed control, this was not as effective as in the hand-weeded treatments. Metribuzin, despite affording adequate weed control, was highly injurious to beans. At the rate of 0.7 kg ai/ha, metribuzin reduced the bean stand by over 50%. Yield of beans from conventional tillage treatments was superior to those from the minimum tillage system. Minimum tillage has some merit for bean production, but satisfactory weed control measures are needed.