Effects of superabsorbent application on Agronomic characters of red bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cultivars under Drought stress conditions

ABSTRACT: This experiment was conducted in field conditions to examine the benefits of super absorbent polymer for efficient management of soil moisture and better understanding the physiological process in response to drought stress in three red bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) varieties Experimental design in the field was randomized complete block design with split-factorial arrangement. In the field conditions, two irrigation regimes (control and water-holding from flowering satage) were allotted to main plots; varieties (Derakhshan, Naz and D81083) and super absorbent concentrations (0 and 7.5% based on soil mass) were allotted to sub-plots. Results showed that super absorbent polymer can increase tolerance of bean under drought conditions. Naz variety indicated better than Derakhshan and D81083, agronomical characteristics. Results showed using superabsorbent polymer can increase interval between irrigations and it can decrease drought stress effect on plants hence increase water use efficiency.