XIII. Insect Pest Control of Broad Beans
The main pests affecting broad bean crops are aphids and pod borers.
1. Aphids
Aphids, commonly referred to as greenflies or plant lice, are among the most destructive pests in broad bean cultivation. These small insects feed on the sap of leaves, which can weaken the plant and stunt its growth. More seriously, they act as vectors for viral diseases, causing leaf curling, yellowing, and overall plant decline. This can lead to reduced yields or even total crop failure. Aphids reproduce rapidly and can fly into fields quickly, making early intervention crucial. Chemical control methods, such as insecticides applied over large areas, are effective when used properly.
2. Pod Borers
Pod borers, also known as bean weevils, bean beetles, or seed flies, are major pests that attack broad beans at various stages of development. During flowering, adult borers feed on pollen and nectar, and later lay eggs inside developing pods. The hatched larvae then bore into the seeds, feeding on the kernels. As the beans mature, the larvae continue to develop inside, reducing the quality and nutritional value of the seeds. Infested beans may lose color, become inedible, or fail to germinate. Damage levels can reach up to 50% in severe cases. The life cycle of these pests includes overwintering in pods, warehouses, and crevices, with adults emerging in spring to re-infest fields. Prevention is most effective before the larvae become active.
Control Methods:
1. Hot Water Treatment: This method is ideal when there are few infested seeds. It involves drying the harvested broad beans, placing them in a bamboo basket, and briefly immersing them in boiling water for 30 seconds. Afterward, the beans are cooled in cold water and dried thoroughly before storage. This process effectively kills pests without harming the seeds' germination or quality.
2. Field Spraying: During the flowering stage, apply a solution of 90% trichlorfon diluted at 1:2000–3000 or 50% trichlorfon at 1:1000. Spray in sunny conditions, using about 100 kg of solution per acre. This method achieves an effectiveness rate of over 90%.
XIV. Broad Bean Varieties
China has a wide range of broad bean varieties, many of which are highly valued for their yield, quality, and adaptability.
1. Cixi Large White Silkworm
This is a late-maturing variety from Cixi City, Zhejiang Province. It is suitable for intercropping and produces over 200 kg per mu. With large grains (around 100 grams per 100 seeds), it has a white, clean appearance and a protein content of 29.5%. Known for its excellent taste and high market value, it is popular both domestically and internationally. However, it requires well-drained soil and is not drought-tolerant. Sowing occurs before the last frost, and the crop matures by late May of the following year. The recommended sowing rate is 12.5 kg per acre.
2. Shangtian Jiqing
This mid-season variety from Shangyu County, Zhejiang Province, is resistant to moisture and suitable for planting in low-lying areas. It has a green seed coat, with 100 seeds weighing around 80 grams and a protein content of 31.5%. Sown at the end of October, it matures by late May next year, yielding 150 kg per mu. The recommended sowing rate is 10 kg per mu.
3. Chongli Broad Beans
A local variety from Chongli County, Hebei Province, this type is precocious with light yellow skin. It has a high 100-seed weight of 110–120 grams and a protein content of 24%. It grows compactly and thrives in fertile soils, making it suitable for dense planting. Sown in early May, it reaches maturity before the first frost, producing 200–250 kg per mu. Ideal for frying, it is a popular export item with high market demand.
4. Linxia Maya
This variety from Linxia Prefecture, Gansu Province, is late-maturing and requires 155–170 days to mature. It has tall plants and milky white testas. With a 100-seed weight of 120 grams and a protein content of 23.7%, it is suitable for high-altitude regions (1700–2500 meters). It needs a frost-free period of about 160 days. Spacing should be adjusted accordingly, with 1.0–12,000 plants per acre. Average yields range from 250–350 kg per mu, with some fields reaching 450 kg.
5. Wuyuan Maya
This is a local variety from Wuyuan County, Qinghai Province. (Continued)
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