Iranian Journal Pulses Research

Abstract Introduction
Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) from the Fabaceae family, is a self-fertilizing and diploid annual plant (2n=14), herbaceous and botanically has a short and branched stem with a bright green color. Drought stress is one of the most common climate-related challenges in nature, and few plants can fully overcome it. It is a major factor limiting plant growth. Given that over 80% of the area under lentil cultivation in Iran relies on rainfed agriculture, drought has the greatest impact on reducing yield during various stages of the plant's growth and development. Supplementary irrigation technique is effective in reducing the possible risk and increasing the reliability of crop yield under rainfed conditions. Planting density can play an important and strategic role in plant yield.
 
Materials and Methods
The present experiment was conducted in the crop year 2023. The soil of the study site, first, was plowed and then disked and finally leveled with a trowel. Before planting, the seeds were disinfected using Captan fungicide to prevent lightning disease. After the initial preparation of the land, planting was done at the end of March 2023. The experiment was carried out in the form of split plots based on a randomized complete block design with three replications. The main factor (main plots) included two levels (irrigation at the time of planting and no supplementary irrigation) and the sub factor (subplots) was related to planting density (100, 200 and 300 plants per m²). All crop care was done at a certain time according to the customs of the research area. In this research, the characteristics of plant height, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per plant, number of branches per plant, dry weight of a whole plant (biomass), total weight of seeds of a plant (seed yield), 100-seed weight and the SPAD value were measured. Relevant measurements were performed with standard methods. SPSS version 26 software was used for statistical analysis of data.
 
Results and Discussion
The results of this study showed that there is significant genetic diversity for the studied traits. Based on the Analysis of variance results, in the case of supplementary irrigation factor, the traits of number of pods per plant, number of seeds per plant, biological yield, 100-seed weight and SPAD value at the probability level of 1% (P≤ 0.01) and for traits of plant height and seed yield were significant at the 5% probability level (P≤ 0.05). Regarding the planting density, traits of number of pods per plant, biological yield, seed yield, 100-seed weight and SPAD value were significant at 1% probability level (P≤ 0.01). Considering the interaction effect of these two factors (supplementary irrigation and planting density), the number of seeds per plant was significant at the 5% probability level (P≤ 0.05) and the 100-seed weight was significant at the probability level 1% (P≤ 0.01). Mojdeh cultivar with a density of 100 and 200 plants per m² and with additional irrigation conditions at the beginning of flowering had the best yield (3.26 and 2.93 g, respectively). Correlation analysis (Pearson method) of traits showed that there is a significant correlation between the yield and other evaluated traits (P≤ 0.01 and P≤ 0.05), which indicates the relationship between yield components and yield which can pave the way for future agricultural and plant breeding research on the same topics as current research.
 
 
Conclusions
According to the results of this experiment, it seems that the density of 100 or 200 plants per m² is suitable for lentil cultivation in conditions similar to the location of this research. The results also showed the significant diversity and difference for most traits, which can be useful and practical in future agricultural and breeding programs.

Abstract Introduction
Given the expected population growth in the coming years and the necessity to provide food for people, legumes, especially chickpeas (Cicer arietinum. L), hold significant importance in terms of economics, nutrition, soil improvement, and crop rotation. Legumes are considered one of the most important sources of protein in most developing countries. Researchers believe that early cultivation of chickpeas leads to better performance due to the longer vegetative growth period and concurrent reproductive phase with appropriate rainfall and desirable moisture. On the other hand, studies show that spring planting of chickpeas leads to a reduction in all growth factors due to the simultaneous sensitive growth stages with water deficit and drought stress. This study was conducted to grouping of candidate chickpea genotypes in response to water deficit based on their yield performance and components at different planting dates.
 
Materials and Methods
This study was conducted at the research farm station of the Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, in the year 2018-19. In this research, six genotypes and two cultivars were evaluated in a randomized complete block design with four replications as a split-plot design. Seeds were obtained from the seed bank collection of Research Center for Plant Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad. Planting was done in two dates in 5 March and 13 April with a density of 40 plants per square meter. Also, irrigations were done only at two stages; the first stage was irrigated with the purpose of achieving the emergence and the second irrigation at the time of 50% flowering with 20 mm in both stages. To measure traits such as emergence time, flowering time (50% of plants in flowering stage) and biomass, plant height, number of pods per plant, percentage of fertile pods, and 100-seed weight at the end of the growth stage and harvest time, five plants were randomly selected from each plot, and the desired traits were examined and recorded. At the time of full maturity and drying of the plants, after removing half a square meter margin from each plot, biological and seed yield were measured, and for calculating biological yield, the dry weight of seeds was added to the dry weight of plant residues.
 
Results and Discussion
The results indicated a significant superiority in all traits for the first planting date (5 March) compared to the second planting date (13 April). Significant differences were observed among the different genotypes in terms of emergence percentage, days to maturity, plant height, days to flowering, biological yield, podding, and seed yield. Genotype MCC352 had the highest number of pods per plant (34 pods), and genotype MCC427 had the highest number of days to flowering. Genotype MCC537 was superior in plant height and biological yield, but genotype MCC696 was superior in days to maturity and seed yield, indicating that these two genotypes had better responses to environmental conditions. Based on cluster analysis of chickpea genotypes in the first planting date, eight genotypes were classified into four clusters. Cluster 1 included genotypes MCC352, MCC537, MCC552, MCC80, and Jam cultivar. Cluster 2 included Samin cultivar. Cluster 3 included genotype MCC427, and cluster 4 included genotype 696MCC. Cluster 1 had the highest coefficients in terms of emergence percentage and days to maturity, and cluster 2 had the highest coefficients of days to maturity and days to flowering. Similarly, in the second planting date, eight chickpea genotypes were classified into three clusters. Cluster 1 included genotypes MCC696, MCC537, MCC552, MCC80, and Jam cultivar. Cluster 2 included genotypes MCC352 and MCC427. Cluster 3 included Samin cultivar. Cluster 1 had the highest coefficients in terms of emergence percentage and days to maturity, and cluster 2 had the highest coefficients of days to maturity and emergence percentage. Furthermore, the Principal Component Analysis of the studied genotype traits showed that in the first planting date (5 March), PC1 (43.4%) and PC2 (25.7%) accounted for a total of 69.1% of the variance, while in the second planting date, PC1 (36.8%) and PC2 (27%) accounted for a total of 63.3% of the variance. Overall, the studied genotypes had better performance and yield components in the first planting date.
 
Conclusions
In general, it can be concluded that delayed planting and exposure to drought stress during the critical growth stages of the plant at the end of the season resulted in a decrease in chickpea yield and its components. It was observed that planting chickpea on time to avoid late drought stress at flowering and podding stages would lead to a better yield and its components.

Abstract Introduction
Pulses, including red beans, constitute a significant protein source in human nutrition. Beans exhibit symbiosis with nitrogen-fixing bacteria. In recent years, the growing concern for the nutritional quality of products derived from diverse agricultural systems, particularly in relation to chemical fertilizers and their impact on human health and the environment, has prompted the adoption of sustainable agriculture practices. Beans, being water-intensive plants, are susceptible to dehydration. Consequently, this research, driven by persistent drought occurrences, diminishing groundwater levels, the deleterious effects of chemical fertilizers on agricultural lands, and escalating fertilizer costs, as well as the availability of various cultivars of red beans, has advocated for the implementation of drip irrigation, biological fertilizers, and the cultivation of new bean varieties with enhanced seed yields.
 
Materials and Methods
This experiment was conducted in the years 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 under farm conditions in Aligudarz city, using a 3-replicate split-plot factorial RCBD. The primary factors examined were irrigation methods (furrow and drip), while cultivars (Akhtar and Yaghout) and fertilizers (NPK applied according to the bean fertilizer table, application of biochemical fertilizer, and pure nitrogen application at 30 kg during the three-leaf and five-leaf stages) served as secondary factors. The dimensions of each plot were 6 meters in length and 2.5 meters in width and included 5 rows of planting. weed and pest and disease control were carried out. The traits of the efficiency of remobilization of dry matter to the seed, the share of seed yield from remobilization of plant dry matter and the share of seed yield from plant current photosynthesis, the capacity to accumulate photosynthetic materials and seed yield evaluated and measured. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed using the GLM procedure in SAS. The least significant difference test (LSD) was used to assess the significance of differences in treatment means at the 5 percent probability level.
 
Results and Discussion
The highest efficiency of remobilization dry matter to seeds in this experiment was of Yaghout cultivar using NPK fertilizer in 2019, which due to the longer vegetative growth and more leaves, led to more photosynthesis and the conditions for producing more reproductive organs. As a result, The highest efficiency of remobilization of dry matter (22%) during the growth period, compared to Akhtar variety (9%) had the highest efficiency of remobilization of dry matter to the seeds. In this experiment the highest and lowest efficiency of remobilization of dry matter to seed was with the use of furrow irrigation in 2019 and the use of drip irrigation in 2020. Also, in each of the irrigation methods, the efficiency of remobilization of dry matter to the seed in 2019 was significantly higher than in 2020. The difference in years from the point of view of this attribute should be considered due to the difference in atmospheric parameters in these two years. Remobilization of dry matter to seed and current photosynthesis of the plant are two important components of the final yield of the plant, and investigating their role as components of seed yield is one of the goals of this experiment. The highest share of seed yield was obtained from remobilization of plant dry matter from the Yaghout cultivar and with the application of NPK fertilizer in 2019 (39.69%) and in 2020 (34.3%). However, the highest share of seed yield from current photosynthesis was assigned to the Yaghout cultivar with the use of NPK fertilizer in both years of the experiment. The share of seed yield from current photosynthesis of the plant is the result of the remobilization of dry matter to the seed as well as the current photosynthesis of the plant. The highest capacity to accumulate photosynthetic materials was obtained in Yaghout cultivar under drip irrigation. while the lowest amount was observed in the Akhtar cultivar with furrow irrigation. Akhtar and Yaghout cultivars in drip irrigation showed capacity to accumulate photosynthetic materials more than furrow irrigation. Therefore, it can be concluded that the physiological parameter of capacity to accumulate photosynthetic materials had the most significant correlation with seed yield in this experiment. The highest seed yield was obtained from the Yaghout cultivar with the application of bio-chemical fertilizers, and the lowest seed yield was of Akhtar cultivar with the application NPK fertilizer. Moreover, the correlation between the variables suggests that the high capacity for assimilating substances in the storage of seeds is the most critical factor influencing the increase in seed yield per unit area.
 
Conclusions
Correlation coefficients between traits showed that seed yield had the most positive and significant correlation with the share of seed yield from current photosynthesis of the plant and the accumulation capacity of photosynthetic materials. In other words, the two-year results of this experiment showed that the seed yield is mainly the final result of the current photosynthesis of the plant and the capacity for material accumulation in the seeds. Considering the persistent challenges of drought, significant depletion of groundwater, and the escalating costs of chemical fertilizers in recent years, coupled with their adverse impacts on agricultural soils, alongside the genotypic diversity of red beans, there exists a potential to markedly enhance seed yield. This can be achieved by reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and adopting a combination of biochemical fertilizers and the drip irrigation method in conjunction with the use of genetically modified cultivars of red beans. Strengthening these physiological components emerges as a key pathway to realizing this improvement.

Abstract Introduction
Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is a plant from the legume family, which is usually cultivated under rainfed conditions. This crop is mostly cultivated in late winter or early spring. In these conditions, there is a high probability of heavy rains (short or long term) and there is a possibility of waterlogging in early spring and during the early growing stages of chickpea. In waterlogged conditions, due to the lack or absence of oxygen in the plant roots occur anaerobic conditions and greatly reduced the amount of energy production in the roots. In this case, the root does not have the necessary energy to transport materials from the cell membrane, and plants face ionic stress, reduced hydraulic conductivity, and reduced water absorption. Reduced and disrupted root growth leads to diminished shoot growth, impaired water and nutrient absorption, and ultimately lower grain yield. In general, the extent of damage caused by oxygen deficiency depends on the plant species, variety, growth stage, soil type, and environmental conditions. Therefore, the purpose of this experiment was to investigate the effects of waterlogging on chickpea cultivars (Desi and Kabuli), physiological characteristics, root growth and yield.
 
Materials and Methods
This experiment was carried out as factorial based on completely randomized design (CRD) in three replications in the research farm via pot of the Campus of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran in 2013-2014. Factors included chickpea cultivars ILC482 and Azad (from Kabuli type) and Kaka and Pirooz (from Desi type) and duration of waterlogging including no waterlogging (control), 4, 8 and 12 days at 30 days after planting (vegetative stage). Physiological traits (relative water content, membrane stability and pigments) as well as total root length, root dry weight, number of nodes, main root length and root volume in a destructive way in the pod setting stage, as well as in the ripening stage, root traits, remobilization, relative water content, membrane stability, pigments, seed protein, biological yield, seed yield, 100-seed weight and plant height were investigated. Planting was done in the first year on March 11, 2013 and in the second year on March 15, 2014. The size of plastic pots was 30 x 30 cm. 30 days after planting were applied treatments. Compound analysis of data was done with SAS software and means comparisons were performed using the least significant difference (LSD) at the 5% level.
 
Results and Discussion
The results of compound analysis showed that there were significant differences between the two years in seed yield and the number of seeds per plant. In the second year, the seed yield and the number of seeds per plant compared to the first year increased by 16.9% and 12.1%, respectively. In the second year, the ambient temperature was lower. At a lower temperature, the waterlogging damage is more severe to plants. The total dry matter yield of chickpea cultivars in waterlogged conditions was significantly different and Kaka, Pirooz, ILC482 and Azad cultivars were 4.42, 3.19, 2.99 and 2.54 g.plant^-1, respectively. The highest damage to seed yield in waterlogging in 12 days was related to Azad variety (71% compared to the control). In waterlogged conditions, the seed yield was in Kaka (1.51 g.plant^-1), Pirooz (1.16 g.plant^-1), ILC482 (0.95 g.plant^-1) and Azad (0.97 g.plant^-1). There was a significant difference between Kabuli type and Desi type, however, grain yield in Desi type was 28.3% higher than Kabuli type. In the pod setting stage, the Pirooz cultivar in the control treatment had the highest total root length with 7741 cm (in the first year) and 7432 cm (in the second year), but the lowest was in the second year at the Kaka cultivar and 12 days with 440 cm. In general, with the increase of the duration of flooding in chickpea cultivars, the total root length decreased significantly and between 4 days, 48.4 to 60.4 percent, 8 days to 8.8 to 70.8 percent, and 1.12 days from 81 to 89.4 percent. In all treatments, the control treatment (without waterlogging) had the highest chlorophyll a, and the amount of chlorophyll a decreased in other treatments. However, no reduction was observed in Pirooz in 4, 8 and 12-day treatment. Chlorophyll b had a different response to waterlogging levels and cultivar. Chlorophyll b was the highest in ILC482 in control treatment, while in Azad, Kaka and Pirooz treatments, chlorophyll b increased with increasing duration of waterlogging. Pigment carotenoids in ILC482 and Azad significantly decreased with increasing duration of waterlogging, but it was not significant in Kaka and Pirooz cultivars. Overall, carotenoids were less fluctuating in the desi type.
 
Conclusions
Waterlogging in the vegetative stage even for 4 days with a decreasing effect on total root length, number of nitrogen fixing nodes, plant height, total dry matter, chlorophyll and carotenoids content, membrane stability index, relative leaf water content, biological yield, seed protein, the number of seeds per plant and the weight of 100 seeds and finally caused a decrease in seed yield. Among the components of seed yield, the amount of damage was higher on the number of seeds per plant. In general, the seed yield of ILC482 and Azad (Kabuli type) was lower than that of Kaka and Pirooz (Desi type). In the second year, due to the lower air temperature compared to the first year, the damage to the total root length and total dry matter decreased. This experiment provides valuable results on the response mechanisms of chickpea to waterlogging stress and can help develop strategies to improve its performance in waterlogged environments, which are expected to waterlogging increase due to climate change. However, more research is needed to investigate the response of different chickpea species to short-term and long-term waterlogging conditions.

Abstract Introduction
Drought is one of the most important abiotic stresses that has an undesirable effect on crop production and their quality and leads to osmotic, ionic, and nutritional limitations as well as growth delay, metabolic disorders and oxidative stress in plants. Iran has a dry and semi-arid climate. Due to this problem, there is a possibility of drought stress during the growth period of plants. Presently, the production of legumes in the country is mostly under rainfed conditions and drought stress is one of the main factors reducing the yield of legumes. Mung bean is a small grain of valuable legume. Evaluation of the performance of different cultivars is considered a starting point in identifying drought-resistant cultivars. Cycocel is one of the most important growth retarders for tampering with growth and performance. Therefore, the present study was conducted to investigate the effect of foliar application of cycocel on morphophysiological and biochemical characteristics of mung bean (Vigna radiata L.) genotypes under water deficit conditions.
 
Materials and Methods
This study was conducted in order to investigate the effect of foliar application of cycocel on the morpho-physiological and biochemical characteristics of mung bean (Vigna radiata L.) genotypes under water deficit conditions, split-split plots based on a randomized complete block design with three replications, in the research farm of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad. Experimental factors included 3 levels of drought (non-stress, mild stress, and severe stress), 3 levels of cycocel foliar spraying (0, 400, and 800 mg.l^-1), and 2 levels of mung bean cultivars (Hendi landrace and Zarbakhsh). Statistical analysis was performed using SAS 9.4 and comparing the means was based on the LSD method at a 5% probability level.
 
Results and Discussion
The experimental results showed that the effect of drought stress, cycocel, genotype, and the interaction of drought stress and cycocel as well as drought stress and genotype on height, stem diameter, relative water content, stomatal conductance, leakage of electrolytes, greenness and chlorophyll content were significant. Severe stress, compared to non-stress conditions, caused a decrease in height (53%), stem diameter (30%), relative water leaf content (29%), stomatal conductance (68%), greenness (37%), chlorophyll a content (25%) and chlorophyll b content (30%) and leakage of electrolytes increased (60%). The results showed that both drought stress and cycocel caused a decrease in the height of the plant. At all levels of drought stress, the Hendi genotype had a higher plant height. Drought stress caused a decrease in the diameter of the stem, while the application of cycocel reduced the decrease in the diameter of the stem due to drought stress. Drought stress caused a decrease in the relative content of leaf water, while the application of cycocel reduced this decrease. Also, Drought stress reduced the stomatal conductance, while the application of cycocel slightly compensated this reduction. At all levels of drought stress, Zarbakhsh genotype had higher stomatal conductance, but the difference between the two genotypes in the treatment of non-stress was not significant. Drought stress increased the leakage of membrane electrolytes, and the use of cycocel reduced the increase in electrolyte leakage due to drought stress, and it was also found that the increase in electrolyte leakage due to drought stress was more intense in the Hendi genotype. Drought stress reduced the greenness of the leaf, while the application of cycocel slightly compensated this reduction. Also, at all levels of drought stress, the Zarbakhsh genotype had higher leaf greenness, but the difference between the two genotypes in the treatment of 100% crop water requirement was not significant. The chlorophyll a content of leaves decreased due to drought stress, while the application of cycocel reduced the severity of this decrease. Also, at all levels of drought stress, the Hendi genotype had lower leaf chlorophyll a content.
 
Conclusions
The results of this study showed that under drought stress, there was a decrease in plant height, stem diameter, relative water content, stomatal conductance, greenness, chlorophyll a and b content, along with an increase in electrolyte leakage. Among mung bean cultivars, the Zarbakhsh cultivar showed superiority in tolerance to water shortage conditions compared to another one. The use of cycocel reduced the negative effects of drought stress on the plant. It appeared that the use of cycocel under drought stress conditions is effective for improving plant performance.

Abstract Introduction
Guar is a one-year plant from the Fabaceae family and tolerates dry and salty conditions, and therefore can be used as a high potential for production. The planting date is one of the most critical factors in the cultivation and production of crops. This is especially important for plants being introduced for cultivation in a region for the first time, as research on the optimal planting date for that area is essential. Mineral nutrition of agricultural plants is one of the most important aspects of production, and among the micronutrient elements, zinc has a fundamental role in the catalytic activities of proteins and enzymes involved in biological processes in growing plants. Facilitating the activity of many enzymes in the plant depends on the presence of appropriate amounts of zinc. Considering the research gap related to the effect of planting date and application of zinc sulfate in the study area and in order to compare with other different regions of the country, as well as the importance and development of new plant cultivation in the country, this research was carried out.
 
Materials and Methods
To investigate the response of morphological traits and yield components of guar plant (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.) on different planting dates and zinc sulfate levels in the KhorramAbad region in the 2020 crop year, was carried out. This experiment was carried out as a split plot in the form of a basic design of randomized complete blocks with three replications. In the main plots, the planting date factor was set at three levels (including May 1, 20, and June 10), and in the secondary plots, zinc sulfate foliar treatments were applied at four levels: zero, 20, 40, and 60 kg per hectare of zinc sulfate applied. The amount of zinc sulfate in each plot was mixed with soil based on the treatment levels and the area of each plot. According to the test results, the soil was not deficient in phosphorus and potassium elements, so only urea fertilizer was used.
 
Results and Discussion
The results showed that the effect of planting date, zinc sulfate, and their interaction on plant height traits, the number of sub-branches per plant, leaf dry weight, and specific leaf surface area were significant. Also, the effect of planting date and zinc sulfate on the number of pods per m², grain yield, and leaf area index were significant. Planting guar on June 10 resulted in the highest number of pods per m² (1998.6 pods) and the number of seeds per m² (13920 seeds), and on the other hand, despite the positive correlation between them and seed yield, the highest seed yield on this date, 3889.7 kg per hectare was planted. The highest number of leaves per plant (846.75 leaves) and leaf area index (6.02) were obtained on the planting date of June 10 and with the application of 60 kg per hectare of zinc sulfate (689.44 leaves and 5.43, respectively). The highest amount of dry weight of leaves per plant in the treatment of application of 20 kg.ha^-1 of zinc sulfate was 21.08 grams and the highest specific surface area of guar leaf was obtained on the planting date of May 20 and in the treatment of no application of zinc sulfate (0.47). The presence of a positive correlation between growth characteristics, yield components, and leaf characteristics with grain yield also indicated the positive effect of zinc sulfate application and planting date of 10 June in increasing these characteristics and as a result increasing grain yield.
 
Conclusions
With the delay in planting and the application of zinc sulfate fertilizer, which led to an increase in the grain yield components in the guar plant, the grain yield also increased. According to the results of this study, it can be said that to achieve the maximum seed yield in the guar plant in the Khorramabad region, this plant can be cultivated on the planting date of 10 Khordad. Also, considering that there was no significant difference in terms of grain yield among the different levels of zinc sulfate application, in order to achieve the highest grain yield with the lowest amount of cost, it is possible to use 20 kg of zinc sulfate per hectare.

Abstract Introduction
Pulses, including red beans, are a significant source of protein in human nutrition. Increasing yield per unit area is one of the most important factors for increasing crop production. Todays the increase in crop yield occurred by the excessive use of chemical fertilizers, including nitrogen fertilizers, which caused environmental hazards and consequently human health. Humic acid is a natural organic polymer compound that results from the decay of soil organic matter, peat, lignin, etc., which can be used to increase the product and its quality. One of the important benefits of using humic acid is the ability to chelate various nutrients such as potassium and magnesium and other elements to overcome the lack of nutrients. Humic acid also creates more space for water to penetrate through physical modification and improved soil granulation. Plant density is another important agronomic factor that manipulates micro- environment and affects growth, development and yield of plants. Within certain limits, increase of plant population density declines the growth and yield per plant but the reverse occurs for yield per unit area. The optimum plant density to attain highest yield may vary with the genotype and agronomic factor. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to investigate the effect of sulphurous humic acid and plant density on growth and yield of red beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cultivars (Ofogh, Dadfar and Yaghoot).
 
Materials and Methods
The experiment was conducted as a factorial based on a randomized complete blocks design with three replications in the Bojnord city located in north east of Iran during the year 2022. The experimental factors were: plant density at three levels (18, 25, and 40 plants per m², sulfur-containing humic acid (0 (no application humic acid) 4 and 6 liters per hectare) and red bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cultivars (Ofogh, Dadfar and Yaghoot). Humic acid treatments were applied in the stages of two to four leaves, before flowering and after pod formation, depending on the level of treatment.
 
Results and Discussion
The results showed that Yaghoot cultivar had the highest plant height (71 cm) while, Dadfar had the lowest plant height (40 cm) at all three plant densities. Yaghoot cultivar also had the highest seed number per pod (4.1) and seed yield (4450 kg.ha^-1) with application of 6L per hectare humic acid while, Dadfar cultivar had the lowest seed per pot (2) and seed yield (766 kg.hac^-1). Results showed the best cultivar was Yaghoot and then Ofogh due to growth traits. The best plant density was 40 plants per m² and among the humic acid levels, application of 6 lit per hectare had the best results. In the absence of fertilization, the amount of total chlorophyll of cultivars Yaghoot and Ofogh was not affected by the density, However, increasing of humic acid significantly increased the amount of total chlorophyll in all three cultivars and the highest amount of chlorophyll obtained at the highest level of humic acid and plant densities 18 and 25 for Yaghoot and the density of 18 plants for Dadfar.
 
 
Conclusions
In general, it was concluded that humic acid and plant density have been able to have a positive effect on most of the growth traits and photosynthetic pigments of red bean plant. The best cultivar was Yaghoot variety and then Ofogh variety and the best plant density was 40 plants per square meter. Among the humic acid levels, the consumption of 6 liters per hectare had the best result. By observing the appropriate level of density, variety and humic acid, we will be able to harvest the maximum yield of red bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cultivars (Ofogh, Dadfar and Yaghoot) in Bojnord region.

Abstract Introduction
Considering the limitation of arable land, the most effective factor in increasing the production of beans is to conduct research in the field of agronomic and breeding in order to increase the yield per unit area. In order to determine the effect of genetic or environmental factors on a trait, different genotypes should be studied in multiple environments. The varying responses of genotypes in different environments, coupled with the interaction effects of genotype in the environment, render the selection of genotypes from one environment to another challenging. Therefore, examining genotypes in diverse environments holds significant importance in determining the appropriate breeding strategy for the release of adapted cultivars to the target environments. Considering the role of genetic diversity in the advancement of breeding programs, the study of morphological and phenological characteristics that determine yield is a suitable method to achieve selection criteria for improving yield and improving and introducing compatible and high-yielding cultivars. Seed yield is a complex trait that is controlled by a large number of genes, and selection based on yield alone is often not successful. For this reason, one of the ways to identify high-yielding genotypes is to study traits that have a significant relationship with seed yield, so that by selecting or removing them, the accumulation of desirable genes in improved cultivars can be done. Considering the climatic conditions of different regions of Iran, this research was conducted in order to investigate the yield and yield components of red beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in 4 major bean growing regions in the country.
 
Materials and Methods
14 red bean genotypes along with Yaghout, Ofogh and Dadfar varieties (Controls) were studied in randomized complete block design with three replications in four research stations of Khomein, Broujerd, Shahrekord and Zanjan for 2 crop years (2018-2019). At the time of harvest, each plot was harvested separately and the yield of each plot was weighed after threshing. After collecting data related to yield and its components, combined variance analysis, simple variance analysis related to each location and mean comparisons were performed. Also, correlation analysis and step-by-step regression were used to investigate the relationship between yield and its components.
 
 
Results and Discussion
The results showed that there is a significant statistical difference between the studied locations, years and genotypes in terms of all traits at the probability level of 1%. The significance of genotype × location interaction for all traits made it necessary to analyze the variance separately in each investigated location. The significance of double interactions indicates the relative instability of the traits of different genotypes in different times and places. The highest seed yield was observed at Khomein station in G12, Yaghot and G4 genotypes, Borujerd in G14 and G13 genotypes, Zanjan in Yaghot and G12 genotypes and Shahrekord in G12 and G16 genotypes. Based on the days to maturity the Ofogh variety, G9, G16 and to some extent G4 genotypes, and based on its yield and yield components, the G12 genotype and Yaghuot and Dadfar varieties were introduced as desirable genotypes. Correlation analysis showed that there is a positive but non-significant correlation between seed yield and number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod and number of seeds per plant. Regression analysis showed that the traits of number of seeds per pod, days to maturity, number of pods per plant and 100 grain weight are included in the regression model as effective traits and among these traits, days to maturity with a negative coefficient and the number of pods per plant with a positive coefficient were more effective in seed yield.
 
Conclusions
This study showed that according to the yield and its components in red beans, it is better to introduce a specific variety for each region. Based on the number of days to maturity, Ofogh (check) and G9, G16, and to some extent G4 genotypes, and based on its yield and components, genotypes G12 and G5 can be reported as favorable genotypes. Besides the seed yield, the yield components including the number of pods per plant, the number of seeds per plant, and the 100 grain weight also played a role in selecting better lines; therefore, indirect selection through the selection of these traits can be effective in increasing seed yield. Finally, it can be concluded that apart from seed yield, yield components including the number of pods per plant, the number of seeds per plant, and the weight of 100 seeds can also be effective in selecting superior genotypes; therefore, indirect selection through these traits can be effective in increasing grain yield

Abstract Introduction
Intercropping, the agricultural practice of cultivating two or more crops in the same space at the same time, is an old and commonly used cropping practice which aims to match efficiently crop demands to the available growth resources. The practice of growing two or more crops simultaneously in the same field is called intercropping and it is a common feature in traditional farming of small landholders. It provides farmers with a variety of returns from land and labour, often increases the efficiency with which scarce resources are used and reduces the failure risk of a single crop that is susceptible to environmental and economic fluctuation. Intercropping of chickpea with linseed reduced the chickpea yield by 60.3%, although linseed occupied only 33% of the total area. The loss of chickpea yield was compensated by the additional yield of linseed, and thus the system productivity of chickpea + linseed intercropping was increased by 43.4% compared with sole chickpea. Of this increase in system productivity, 65.3 and 34.7% were contributed by higher seed yield and higher minimum prices of linseed, respectively as compared to chickpea. The objectives of the present study were to study the competition indices of chickpea and quinoa intercropping such as land equivalent ratio, relative crowding coefficient, aggressivity, chickpea equivalent yield and effects of nitrogen and different intercropping arrangements on yield of sole chickpea, sole quinoa and intercropping yield of two plants. The objectives of the present study was to determine the best appropriate treatment of sole cropped, replacement and additive series of chickpea and quinoa in terms of yield and investigation of competition indices in intercropping replacement and additive chickpea and quinoa.
 
Materials and Methods
In order to study the effect of planting pattern and nitrogen application on yield and competitive indicators of chickpea and quinoa, a factorial experiment based on randomized complete block design (RCBD) was conducted with three replications at Gonbad Kavous University farm during the 2020-2021 growing season. Nitrogen factor was included three levels of non-application and application of 25 and 50 kg N.ha^-1 and the treatments of intercropping were included 9 levels of sole cropped of chickpea and quinoa, 67% chickpea + 33% quinoa, 50% chickpea + 50% quinoa, 33% chickpea + 67% quinoa, 100% chickpea + 33% quinoa, 100% chickpea + 50% quinoa, 100% chickpea + 67% quinoa and 100% chickpea + 100% quinoa. For analysis variance of data software of SAS Ver. 9.4 was used and treatment mean differences were separated by the least significant difference (LSD) test at the 0.05 probability level.
 
Results and Discussion
Results showed that the effects of planting pattern and nitrogen consumption on yield were significant at confidence level of 1%. The maximum total yield belonged to the treatment sole cropped of chickpea with 3529 kg.ha^-1, which was not significantly different from the 67% chickpea + 33% quinoa treatment. With increase of nitrogen fertilizer consumption, total yield was increased. The lowest chickpea crop equivalent yield related to the treatment sole cropped of chickpea and mixed crop was 33% increase of quinoa to chickpea crop with 3529 and 3551 kg.ha^-1, respectively, and the highest was related to sole cropped of quinoa with 8876 kg.ha^-1. Land equivalent ratio was higher than one in all the additive mixed cropping treatments and alternative mixed cropping treatments. The maximum proportion of land belonging to the treatment of 100% chickpeas + 67% quinoa was 1.10. The relative coefficient of total density in all treatments was more than one, which indicates the desirability of mixed cultivation of chickpea and quinoa. The examination of the aggressivity index showed that quinoa was dominant in the mixed cropping treatments, increasing and replacing the plant. As a result, the dominance index of quinoa was positive despite the favorable yield of both plants.
 
Conclusions
Of the two plants of chickpea and quinoa, quinoa plant produced more yield than chickpea plant. The maximum total yield belonged to the treatment sole cropped of chickpea with 3529 kg.ha^-1, which was not significantly different from the 67% chickpea + 33% quinoa treatment. With increasing of nitrogen fertilizer consumption, yield was increased. According to the results, it seems that it is not possible to increase the density of two plants in mixed cultivation to obtain the maximum yield.

Abstract Introduction
Faba bean (Vicia faba L.) is one of the oldest cultivated legumes, widely grown in temperate regions and at high altitudes in tropical areas. This crop thrives in wet and cool conditions, while hot and dry weather can severely damage its yield. Therefore, the sowing date must be carefully selected to avoid excessive heat, particularly during the flowering period. In field data analysis, the 'environment' refers to any recommended management practice for producers, such as sowing date, planting density, or fertilizer application. GGE biplot (Genotype plus Genotype-by-Environment biplot) and PLSR (Partial Least Squares Regression) can be used to analyze these datasets. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the interaction between variety and sowing date by multiplicative models such as SREG and GGE biplot and to evaluate the quality of varieties using a sensory panel.
 
Materials and Methods
The present experiment was carried out in a split plot based on randomized complete block design with three replications in Soamesera, Gilan province. The main factor in this experiment was sowing date (11 November, 11 December, 10 January and 9 February) and the split factor was faba bean varieties (Guilan landrace, Barakat, Feiz, Shadan and Mahta). Evaluation of the effect of sowing date was caried out by analysis of variance, mean comparison, GGE biplot and PLSR methods by GEA-R software. A sensory panel was used to evaluate the quality of taste in the fresh seeds of bean varieties obtained from the first sowing date by Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U using SPSS software.
 
Results and Discussion
Analysis of variance showed that the effect of variety were significant on all traits including days to emergence, days to pod formation, plant height, green pod length, stems per plant, seeds per pod, pods per plant, hundred seed weight, green pod yield, biological yield and harvest index. The effect of sowing date was significant on all traits except stems per plant. The interaction effect of two factors was also significant on all traits except days to emergence and stems per plant. For traits with significant interaction between two factors, the mean comparison of variety (sub factor) was carried out at each level of sowing date (main factor). Days to pod formation, plant height and pods per plant in all varieties had a downward trend from the first to the fourth sowing date. Feiz had the longest length of green pods and the highest number of seeds per pod in all of sowing dates. Mahta and Shadan with smaller seed size had more pods per plant than other varieties. Shadan and Faiz had more hundred seed weight compared to other varieties in the late sowing dates. The highest seed yield was obtained in Shadan (431.65 g.m^-2) on 11 November and the lowest yield was obtained in the Guilan landrace (75.65 g.m^-2) on 9 February. With the delay in sowing, the seed yield decreased in Barkat, Feiz and Guilan landrace, but in Mahta and Shadan, with the delay in sowing, the seed yield decreased until the third sowing date, and again increased on the fourth sowing date. GGE biplot analysis showed that Barkat, Feiz and Shadan had the highest; and Mahta and Guilan landrace had the lowest seed yield. Also, Faiz and Guilan landrace had more stable yield in different sowing dates. Based on another view of GGE biplot, the best genotype for first sowing date was Guilan landrace; for second sowing date, Feiz; for third sowing date, Barket; and for fourth sowing date, Shadan and Faiz. In PLSR approach was investigated the relationship between the dependent variable (seed yield, Y) and the climatic explanatory variables (X variables). The results showed that the genotypes had different responses to different sowing dates and also their climatic needs were different, so that Mahta, Shadan and Barkat were more under the influence of temperature factors at the end of the growing season, and Faiz and Guilan landrace were more under the influence of temperature factors at the beginning of the growing season, as well as the amount of precipitation and evaporation in whole period of growth. Wide temperature range (difference between high and low temperature) at the end of the growing season has a negative effect on the yield of Feiz and Guilan landrace, while low temperature at the beginning of the growing season has a positive effect on these genotypes. Evaluation of the quality of taste with a sensory panel in the fresh seeds showed that Feiz had the highest rank of taste among the varieties.
 
Conclusions
In conclusion, although Guilan landrace and Feiz had more stability of yield in comparison with other varieties, considering the higher yield of Faiz compared to Guilan landrace and also its superiority in the sensory panel, this variety can be considered as a substitute for Guilan landrace faba bean in Guilan province. Also, the results of this study show the significant reaction of the seed yield of all five varieties to the sowing date and the necessity of timely sowing to achieve high yield. According to the results of this study, the best time to sowing broad beans in all five varieties was on the 11 November and 11 December; and in case of delay in sowing, Feiz are more recommendable than other varieties.

Abstract Introduction
Legumes are one of the rich sources of plant protein after cereals and the second most important food source for humans. The most important biotic stresses that lead to reduced growth, performance, and sometimes the death of plants are pests, diseases, and weeds. The two-spotted spider mite, due to its extensive host range, rapid population growth, and ability to develop resistance to pesticides, is one of the key pests. Therefore, the use of tolerant varieties for damage control is considered as most reliable, healthy, and cost-effective method in an integrated management system. The feeding of this mite on bean (Phaseolus vulgaris Linnaeus) leaves leads to the formation of yellow spots on the leaf surface (Dorri et al., 2015). The activity of two-spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae Koch, is mainly associated with webbing, which leads to the accumulation of dust, decreasing of the photosynthesis and increasing the pest damage (Hosseini, 2018). Therefore, due to the importance of this pest, this research was conducted to identify resistant genotypes of beans among promising bean genotypes.
 
Materials and Methods
For the experiments, Type 1 promising bean genotypes (KS-21216, KS-21181, KS-21538, KS-21565, KS-21563, KS-21602, KS-21500, KS-21601, KS-21600, and KS-21607), Type 2 genotypes (KS-21573, KS-21597 and KS-21606), and Type 3 genotypes (KS-21255 and KS-21574) along with a susceptible genotype Sadri were cultivated in a field at Khomein National Bean Research Station in a randomized complete block design with three replications during 2022-03. Sampling for damage assessment was carried out weekly from the third leaf stage until the end of the season. From each plot, 10 plants were selected randomly. Two leaves, one from the bottom and the other from the top of each plant, were selected and scored (on a scale of 1-6). To assess performance and its components, field cultivation was conducted under the specified conditions in two separate plots. One plot was treated with pesticide spraying, while the other remained untreated. Characteristics such as pod number per plant, seed number per pod, plant height, and weight of one hundred seeds were measured under both mite-infested and non-infested conditions. Based on the performance of the genotypes under T. urticae mite-infested and non-infested conditions, productivity indices, geometric mean productivity, stress tolerance, and stress sensitivity were calculated.
 
Results and Discussion
The yield and yield components of the genotypes under the presence and absence of T. urticae were evaluated. Genotype KS-21538 had the highest (2166.67 kg.ha^-1) and the sensitive check had the lowest performance (995.17 kg.ha^-1). The highest (16.24) and lowest (4.88) percentage of yield reduction were related to the sensitive check and genotype KS-21538, respectively. The highest and lowest number of pods per plant were observed in genotype KS-21538 and Sadri cultivar with 17.95 and 8.87 pods, respectively. The highest and lowest damage scores under unsprayed conditions were 3.06 and 4.56 in genotype KS-21538 and Sadri respectively. The results of calculating the indices showed that the highest efficiency index, average geometric efficiency index, and stress tolerance index were observed in genotypes KS-21538 and KS-21216, respectively, and the lowest observed in the Sadri and genotype KS-21607. The lowest stress sensitivity index was observed in genotypes KS-21538 and KS-21216, respectively, and the highest observed in Sadri and genotype KS-21607. Researchers examined how planting density and different bean varieties (Akhtar, Derakhshan, and 285) affect the population of two-spotted spider mites. They discovered that the pest density on the Akhtar variety is higher than on Derakhshan and 285. Due to the differences in the bean varieties studied in this research and the current study, the results do not show similarities. The results of this study also showed that pest density is significantly influenced by the bean variety (Karimi et al., 2019). In a study, it was revealed that the Derakhshan, Akhtar, and local Khomein (Sadri) varieties were sensitive to T. urticae, while Dorsa and Kousha varieties and lines 21191 and 31169 showed greater resistance to the two-spotted spider mite and also had acceptable yield compared to other varieties (Kazemi et al., 2019). In the present study, the Sadri variety was also identified as sensitive to damage by the two-spotted spider mite, which is consistent with these results.
 
Conclusions
According to the results genotypes KS-21538 and KS-21216 are recommended as the first and second priority for cultivation in the region due to the higher yield, lower percentage of yield reduction, and the lower damage scale.

Abstract Introduction
Documenting the production process in agriculture includes gathering all the information and activities that show the production process of a product from the stage of seed bed preparation to harvesting. In this view, the farm is considered as a production unit, and all processes from the time of preparation of this production unit for cultivation until the product leaves the farm after harvesting are included in the scope of documentation. Considering that the management of the production process in agricultural systems has a significant effect on the quantity of yield, production efficiency, the efficiency of input consumption and finally the environmental effects of production, monitoring and improving the processes leading to the production of agricultural products in order to reduce the challenges associated with agricultural management in Agricultural systems are inevitable. From a scientific point of view, it is possible to improve such management processes by using various techniques, among which continuous improvement and re-engineering of processes are among the most important ones. Golestan province is considered one of the most important areas for the production of faba bean (Vicia faba L.) in the country due to the climate and soil conditions, therefore, without a comprehensive understanding of the agricultural operations, it is difficult to take steps to meet the needs of farmers and eliminate production obstacles. In this study, it is tried that all the researchers and farmers become familiar with the production process of faba bean in Golestan province in an integrated and documented manner and this research is a basis for effective planning to meet the needs of farmers, reduce the consumption of inputs and reduce the environmental effects by changing the method it will be farm management.
 
Materials and Methods
This research was carried out in two crop years 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 in Golestan province and in Gorgan, Aliabad Katul and Aqqola cities. To document the production and analyze the performance gap, 445 farms that had sufficient diversity in different aspects, including farm management, were selected, and all information related to the farm and production management was collected using questionnaires, observations and measurements. In each region, every year, different fields were examined in terms of agricultural management factors, and observations related to the field, planting, planting and harvesting were recorded. In order to analyze the data, absolute and cumulative frequency distribution was used. In these investigations, the scope of changes and the method of performing each management operation performed in the bean farms and also the proportion of farmers who used different methods of each of these management operations were determined.
 
Results and Discussion
The results showed that soybeans are cultivated more than other crops (41%) before faba bean. Faba bean is planted in these areas between 14 October and 25 November. In these areas, 97% of farmers use reversible plows (one to two times) to prepare the bean planting bed. The amount of seed used is in the range of 60 to 100 kg.ha^-1, and in 56% of the fields it is planted with a linear machine, in 43% with a row machine, and in 2% by hand spraying and then mixing the seeds with the soil using a disc. According to the distribution of rainfall in the region, 92% of faba bean cultivation is carried out under rainfed condition. Farmers use 0 to 115 kg.ha^-1 of pure nitrogen fertilizers, 0 to 96 kg ha^-1 of pure phosphorus and 0 to 72 kg.ha^-1 of pure potassium fertilizers to meet their fertilizer needs. Investigations showed that pesticides were used in 338 out of 445 farms, herbicides were used in 356 farms, and fungicides were used in 293 farms, and the number of times pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides were used varied between 1 and 3 times. Faba bean is harvested in these areas from late April to early June, depending on weather conditions, planting date and variety. The yield of faba bean varied from 780 to 4187 kg.ha^-1.
 
Conclusions
The results of this research can clarify the details of the faba bean production process for students and researchers to carry out future projects and also provide information on the common consumption of inputs to those interested and be useful in the implementation of growth and yield simulation plans under common conditions by means of average crop plants.

Abstract Introduction
In contemporary agriculture, the monoculture system of cereal crops is prevalent. Legumes are the most important plant family for crop rotation and sustainable agriculture due to their nitrogen fixing capabilities. Rainfed agricultural ecosystems are the largest food-producing biomes globally, with water scarcity and fluctuating rainfall being the most significant limiting factors for crop production. The growing demand for freshwater resources will increase the agricultural sector's vulnerability under future climate conditions, restricting production. Kermanshah province, where 78.4% of the land is arid, faces unique weather conditions and is particularly affected by drought stress. In rainfed farming systems, a suitable solution to conserve water at the farm scale is to create a suitable planting bed. The most common method of seed bed preparation among farmers is the normal flat planting method. The flat planting method, which is easy to prepare, is associated with a series of basic problems, such as reducing the efficiency of water use, reducing the efficiency of nitrogen fertilizer use, reducing plant establishment, and the soil capping. Preparing the planting bed by changing the physical conditions of the seed bed, i.e. the thermal, humidity, ventilation and resistance characteristics of the soil, can affect the seedling emergence and the growth of the plant. By creating a ridge and furrow bed and nylon mulch, the soil moisture can be saved for different stages of plant growth.
 
Materials and Methods
The current research was carried out in the research Farm, Campus of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Razi University during the cropping years of 2019 and 2020 as a factorial design based on randomized complete blocks with three replications. The treatments included nylon mulch (without nylon, nylon on the plant and nylon on the soil) and the method of planting in the bed (flat planting, planting in a 50 cm furrow, planting in a 100 cm furrow). The dimensions of each of the experimental plots were 2 m x 2m. In each plot, there were four rows of cultivation at a distance of half a meter, and the distance between the plants on each row was 10 cm. The distance between the experimental plots was one and a half meters. The traits studied included nitrogen use efficiency, leaf specific weight, leaf area index, stem dry weight, leaf dry weight, number of leaves per plant, plant height, dry weight of broadleaf weed, dry weight of narrow leaf weed, crude protein of green seed, and leaf greenness index. After Bartlett's test, the results showed that the dry weight of broad-leaved weeds, the dry weight of narrow-leaved weeds, seed protein and leaf greenness can be analyzed as a combined analysis of variance over two years, and the rest of the traits can be analyzed separately in each year. The data were analyzed using SAS software version 9.1 and the mean of the treatments were compared with the LSD method at a probability level of 5%.
 
Results and Discussion
According to the results of analysis of variance per year, plant height, number of leaves per plant, leaf area index, specific leaf weight and nitrogen consumption efficiency (first year) and specific weight leaf (second year) were affected by the double interaction of nylon and planting bed. The combined analysis of variance showed that broadleaf weed dry weight and leaf greenness were affected by the triple interaction effect of year, nylon and planting bed. According to the mean comparison results (first year), the highest and lowest leaf area index values were obtained in the treatment of nylon on the plant with planting in a 50 cm furrow (3.82) and treatment without nylon with planting in a 50 cm furrow (3.26), respectively. The highest and lowest efficiency of nitrogen use were related to the treatment of nylon on soil with planting in a 50 cm furrow (152 kg.kg^-1) and treatment of without nylon and flat planting (81 kg.kg^-1), respectively. According to the comparison of the mean of the combined analysis of variance, the highest dry weight of broadleaf weeds was obtained in the treatment of the first year, nylon on the plant and flat planting (489 kg.ha^-1), and the lowest in the treatment of the first year, nylon on soil and planting in a 100 cm furrow (71 kg.ha^-1).
 
Conclusions
In this study, the plastic cover on the soil had the highest nitrogen use efficiency and the lowest weed growth due to weed suppresion. These two factors are acceptable reasons for increasing the growth under treatment of plastic cover on the soil. In line with the report of various studies, the treatment of planting in the 50 cm furrow floor reduced the drought stress and increased the growth of the plant by affecting the available water, and this drought stress reduction was more evident in the second year due to the low amount of rainfall.