Dolichos Bean Improvement in Kenya (Lablab Purpereus(L.).using Conventional Plant Breeding Approaches

Abstract

Lablab (Lablab purpureus(L)) commonly known as lablab bean is a multipurpose legu.me species native to Asia. It was introduced to Africa from South East in the eight century. In Kenya, it is mainly grown by small scale farmers in Central, Eastern, Coast and Rift Valley. However, lablab production in Kenya is limited by lack of adaptable varieties in wide agro-ecological zones. The, current varieties used by farmers are low in yield, varying maturity period, low resistance to pests and diseases and low tolerance to drought. Adaptable varieties are one of the most important precursors in variety development