KALRO-KCEP Training and Extension Manual on Common Dry Beans

Abstract

Beans are leguminous annual crops that originated in Central America. In Kenya beans are the most important pulses. They rank second to maize in importance as food crops. The crop provides a cheap source of protein, and is rich in the essential amino acid element lysine which is found in fewer quantities in maize and other grains (du Plessis et al., 2009). The production is mainly at subsistence level by small-scale farmers with limited commercialization. Beans can be grown in pure stand or intercropped with other crops.