Effects of plant density and sowing date on grain yield of faba beans (Vicia faba L.) in northern New South Wales

Abstract

The effects of varying plant density and sowing date on grain yield of faba beans (Vicia faba L.) were determined in 6 experiments at Tamworth and Narrabri in northern New South Wales. The graph of grain yield rose to an asymptote as plant density was increased. Under conditions favouring high yields, a plant density of 20 m-2 gave near maximum grain yields, but for a wider range of circumstances a plant density of 30-35 m-2 was appropriate. If sowing was delayed after the end of April, grain yield was reduced as was dry matter yield and the duration of pod-filling. Late sowing also lowered the height of the first pod above ground, and increased the likelihood of yield loss through foliar disease.