BEAN FARMING

 Beans were introduced to Africa from Latin America several centuries ago. Beans are the main source of protein. Common beans are mainly grown by women for subsistence and for the local market.

Maturity Duration: 2 – 3.5 months

Expected Yield: Up to 2 tons per acre

Growing Season per Year:  Twice on rain-fed and thrice under irrigation.

Nutritional Value: Per 100 g / % Daily Values.  Energy 337 / 17%; Carbohydrates 61.3 / 20%; Fat 1.1 / 2%; Protein 22.5 / 45%; 83.0 / 8%; Phosphorus 406 / 41%; Iron 6.7 / 37%; Pottasium 1359 / 39%; Thiamine (vit. B1) 0.6 / 41%; Riboflavin 0.2 / 13%

Altitude:   600 – 1950 meters above sea level

Rainfall: Over 300-400 mm of rainfall annually

Temperature:  17.5 – 27 0C

Soils: Well-drained  light to moderately heavy soils

PH: Near Neutral