Effect of phosphorus fertilizer levels on growth and yield of haricot bean (Phaseolus vulgaris .L.) in South Ommo Zone, Ethiopia.

Haricot bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is an important cash crop and protein source for farmers in many parts of Ethiopia. However, its production is limited by phosphorus fertilizer. Therefore, field experiment was conducted at the Malle woreda in Koybe kebele farmers training center during the main rain season of 2016 to investigate the responses of haricot bean to different levels of phosphorus fertilizer and its effect on growth, and bean yield. Four phosphorus rates (0, 23, 46, and 69kg ha-1) were used as treatments were laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Red Wolaita haricot bean variety was used as planting material. Recommended rate of N (46 kg/ha) was applied to all treatments. The effect of phosphorus was significantly (P< 0.05) increased bean yield and growth parameters such as leaf area and number of branches per plant, whereas its effect was not significant on plant height. Based on result obtained, application of 46kg P ha-1 is recommended for better production of haricot bean at Malle woreda and similar areas which have the same soil property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]