Achieving a high yield from beans

In 2024, the area planted with beans reached a record 18,000ha. This was partly because farmers had fewer crop options due to a late spring, and the guaranteed income from the protein payment made beans attractive.

Late planting leads to a late harvest. To ensure a successful bean crop in 2025, plant early, ideally in February or March. Spring beans were the most profitable crop on many farms in 2024. With the protein payment available again, beans remain a strong option in 2025.

Teagasc experiments have shown that there is no significant yield difference between establishment methods, but direct drill methods offer savings over the traditional plough/one pass system. Aim to establish 30 plants/m².

Here are five tips to achieve a high yield in spring beans:

• Choose a high fertility site with medium/heavy soil.
• Plant early (February/March). April-planted crops can be successful but risks are higher.
• Ensure pH >6.5.
• Test seed. Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM)-certified seed ensures ascochyta levels are less than 1% and that seed is free from stem nematode.
• Use a pre-emergence herbicide. Post-emergence options are very limited.

The above article first appeared in the Teagasc Tillage Advisory Newsletter for January, which was edited by Teagasc Crops Specialist, Ciaran Collins.

For more information, access the full Teagasc Tillage Advisory Newsletter here.