Iranian Journal Pulses Research

Abstract Introduction
Given that successive droughts, particularly recent ones, have impacted most regions of Iran, drought stress is recognized as one of the major challenges for crop production in the country's arid and semi-arid regions. Beans grow in a wide range of areas that are subject to seasonal droughts and wide fluctuations in soil moisture in different years. Nevertheless, drought stress causes a significant decrease in bean seed yield, and the amount of yield decrease is different depending on the time, stress intensity and studied genotype. Due to environmental conditions in areas where bean cultivation is common, water deficit may occur more than once during the crop growth cycle. In addition, when a dry period (two to three weeks) occurs, especially during flowering, yield reduction will be significant. Drought-adapted cultivars in beans require less water for irrigation and thus help conserve water resources. Despite the desire of farmers to maximize the use of irrigation to increase production in dry and semi-arid conditions, even in the absence of water restrictions, excessive irrigation is not logical; therefore, in such a situation, the efficiency of water consumption in the farm should be optimized. Deficit irrigation is an optimization strategy that purposefully allows the plant to tolerate some degree of deficit irrigation and reduced yield. Several studies show that lack of irrigation causes a significant decrease in the number of seeds, seed weight, number of fertile pods, number of seeds in pod, seed yield, biological yield and harvest index. Of the two main components of seed yield (seed number and seed weight), seed number shows higher sensitivity to water deficit. In this regard, in this research, it has been tried to evaluate the effects of drought stress on yield and yield components in 16 genotypes and cultivars of chiti beans and determine the genotypes with optimal yield under water limitation conditions.
 
Materials and Methods
In order to investigate the effects of deficit irrigation on some phenological and yield traits of chiti beans, 14 promising chiti bean genotypes obtained from breeding programs along with Sadri and Kosha control cultivars, in two consecutive crop years from 2022 to 2023, at Kheirabad Zanjan Research Station, in two conditions normal irrigation (irrigation cycle of 5 days) and deficit irrigation (irrigation cycle of 9 days) were investigated. The experiment was performed at both conditions and in both years, as basic of complete randomized blocks design with 3 replications. Combined variance analysis and mean comparisons were performed and simple correlation coefficients between traits and stepwise regression analysis of traits affecting grain yield in both irrigation conditions were calculated.
 
Results and Discussion
Variance analysis showed that there was a significant difference between the 5 and 9 day irrigation cycles in the number of plants per plot and the number of pods per plant at the 1% level, and in the plant height and yield at the 5% level. There was significant difference between genotypes in terms of all the studied traits (except the number of plants in plot) at the probability level of 1%. Irrigation cycle of 9 days decreased plant height, seed yield and its components including number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod and 100 seed weight. G8, G10, G14 and G15 genotypes had the highest and G13 and G2 genotypes had the lowest seed yield. Correlation analysis showed that in irrigation cycles of 5 and 9 days, there is the highest relationship between seed yield and the number of pods per plant. On the other hand, in the 5-day irrigation cycle, the number of pods per plant, the number of seeds per pod, and the 100 seed weight, and in the 9-day irrigation cycle, only the number of pods per plant were included in the regression model and had the greatest impact on seed yield.
 
Conclusions
The number of pods per plant, the number of seeds per pod and the 100 seed are considered the most important components affecting seed yield and by justifying the large amount of changes in seed yield, they can be used as important traits to improve bean yield in breeding programs in different conditions. Therefore, G8 genotype with the highest number of pods per plant and high weight of 100 seeds can be introduced as a favorable genotype for cultivation in dry conditions.

Abstract Introduction
Mixed cropping is one of the components of sustainable agriculture, if done correctly and the appropriate plant species are selected, it increases yield, improves economic efficiency, preserves natural resources, increases the efficiency of resource use in organic farming and it can be useful in pest, diseases and weeds control. Mixed cropping of oilseeds and legumes is a type of mixed cropping systems that increases the performance of the mixed components, reduces the need for nitrogen fertilizer compared to pure cultivation, increases the efficiency of the consumption of nutrients and water, and causes disruption of specific host diseases. According to the fact that the two plants, bean and sesame have an acceptable time of simultaneous cultivation, therefore it seems that the Mixed cropping of these two plants can achieve the benefits of a mixed cultivation system and increase the productivity of production in the management of weeds. Based on the conducted research, the mixture of oilseeds and legumes increases the performance of the components of the mixture, and on the other hand, due to the potential of nitrogen biofixation in legumes, it reduces the need for nitrogen fertilizer compared to their pure cultivation and significantly suppresses facilitate weeding. The present study was conducted in order to investigate the weed control methods on yield and land equation ratio under the influence of mixed cropping bean and sesame.
 
Materials and Methods
This experiment was conducted as a 6×3 factorial in the form of a randomized complete block design with three replications during 2019-2020 in a farm of Hossein Abad village at Shirvan- Iran. The treatments included different ratios of sesame: bean at 6 levels (100:0, 25:100, 50:100, 75:100, 100:100 and 0:100) at the optimum bean and sesame density (40 pl. m^-2) and weed control methods in three levels including the use of trifluralin herbicide (960 a.i ha^-1) mixed with the soil surface two weeks before planting, and hand weeding 35 and 55 days after planting (DAP). Irrigation was done by drip irrigation every week until seed filling stage. When the sesame seeds were at the physiological ripening stage and the pods of the bean plant were yellow, harvesting was done from an area of ​​one square meter on 24 September. After drying the harvested plants in the open air, their biomass and seed yield were measured and the land equation ratio (LER) was determined.
 
Results and Discussion
The results showed that in all bean and sesame mixed cropping ratios, especially the 75:100 ratio, hand weeding treatments had a higher LER compared to the trifluralin herbicide application treatment. The highest bean grain yield (336.16 g.m^-2) and biomass (953.68 g.m^-2) and the highest sesame grain yield (252.68 g.m^-2) and biomass (average 860.88 g.m^-2) were observed in pure bean sesame cultivation + use of trifluralin. However, in all bean and sesame mixed cropping treatments, LER was higher than monoculture treatments. The highest LER (1.80) was observed in the hand weeding treatment 55 days after planting in the 75:100 (sesame:bean) mixed cropping  ratio. Therefore, the aforementioned treatment can be useful and recommended in weed management as well as increasing yield and biomass in bean and sesame mixed cropping systems.
 
Conclusions
According to the results of this research, mixed cropping of sesame and beans with a ratio of 75:100 (sesame:bean) + 55 DAP can be useful and recommended in this mixed cropping  system and it’s weed management in Shirvan-Iran conditions. However, in pure cultivation of beans and sesame, the use of trifluralin has better results.

Abstract Introduction
beans Phaseolus vulgaris Linnaeus, is one of the most important legumes cultivated in many countries around the world. According to statistics published by the Ministry of Agriculture, the cultivated area of beans in Iran is 91798 ha with an average yield of 2307 kg.ha^-1. In Markazi province, the cultivated area of beans is 13401 ha with an average yield of 2786 kg.ha^-1, making it one of the major bean-growing regions in the country. The bean pod borer, scientifically known as Helicoverpa armigera Hufn. (Lep.Noctuidae), is one of the important pests.
 
Materials and Methods
To address the damage caused by this pest to bean crops, a project was conducted to study changes in the population of adult insects and larvae over two years (2022 and 2023). In each of the two study areas (Milajerd and Khomein), two infected farms (approximately one hectare each) were selected (a total of 4 farms), and 3 delta traps were placed in each farm in a triangular pattern and 100 meters apart. To eliminate edge effects for trap installation, traps were placed 5 meters inside the field and then installed. Traps were placed at a height equal to the tallest part of the plant using wooden stakes. This height was maintained throughout the experiment. Traps were installed before flowering and collected prior to crop harvest. Insects caught in pheromone traps were collected and counted weekly. To monitor larvae, two additional infested farms (each approximately one hectare and different from the farms where traps were installed) were selected. From each farm, 30 plants were randomly chosen during mid-flowering, and the number of larvae was counted every two weeks until harvest. To assess the extent of damage, 30 plants were selected from each farm after crop maturation and before harvest. For each plant, all healthy and damaged pods were identified, and the number of holes per pod, the damaged seeds in each pod, and the total seeds per pod due to pest activity were counted. Finally, the percentage of infection was estimated.
 
Results and Discussion
The findings from the pheromone trap study showed that, over the two-year period, Khomein county had a higher pest population than Milajerd. In the first year in Khomein county, the peak population was observed on Mordad 1 (July 23) in all three traps across both fields. In the second year, on the seventh of Mordad (July 29), the peak population of night moths occurred in Khomein county. In Milajerd county, the peak of moth capture happened in the first and second years on the sixteenth of Mordad (August 7) and the eleventh of Mordad (August 2) respectively. Examination of larval populations indicated that the peak of larval (First and second instar larvae) populations also occurred two weeks after the peak of night moth capture. Since local red and white bean varieties are more cultivated in Khomein and Milajerd counties respectively, the contamination level of red beans in Khomein compared to white beans in Milajerd has been higher. Therefore, to prevent pest spread, it is recommended that in areas with high contamination, cultivation of local white bean varieties should be prioritized over local red bean varieties. The investigation of the distribution and damage level of bean pod borer in important bean-growing areas of Markazi province over two years in five bean-growing regions (Arak, Khomain, Shazand, Milajerd, and Khondab) showed that Khomain and Khondab had the highest and lowest infestation rates, respectively. Red pods showed more sensitivity to this pest compared to green and white pods. In this study, the highest population of bean pod borer larvae was recorded in the mid-flowering stage (Ashtari et al., 2022). The results of this research align with findings on the sensitivity of red bean pods and the timing of bean pod borer population emergence. Studies have shown that the optimal timing for chemical control of chickpea pod borers is when the maximum number of small larvae appears, typically coinciding with the mid-flowering and early pod formation stages (Shafaghi et al., 2022).
 
Conclusions
Considering that the largest population of bean pod borer larvae was about two weeks after the peak of the flight, therefore, it is recommended that if the population of this pest is high and there is a need for chemical control, it should be done about two weeks after the peak of the flight. Also, in order to reduce the percentage of pollution, it is recommended that if possible, farmers prioritize the cultivation of white beans over Chiti and red beans.

Abstract Introduction
Sustainable production is essential for ensuring food security of a growing population. Despite having a high potential for paddy fields in the northern provinces of Iran, unfortunately, most of these paddy fields are planted only once a year and farmers suffer from seasonal unemployment after rice harvesting until the next year. Second crop is one of the ways to increase land productivity and paddy farmers' income which in turn, prevents their migration. The second crop is a type of multiple cropping where the first crop is harvested before planting the second crop. Faba bean (Vicia faba L.) is an annual legume with a high protein content. Faba bean is considered an important food legume crop in Iran, especially in the northern provinces. Cultivation of faba bean as a second crop in paddy fields can help sustainable production. Efficient access to the optimum level of nutrient elements in the soil is very important for plant growth and development. The application of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium fertilizers is one of the most appropriate methods to increase crop production. Determining the optimum levels of chemical fertilizers plays an important role in increasing the yield and sustainable production of faba bean. Therefore, the purpose of this experiment was to investigate morphological traits, yield and yield components of faba bean under different levels of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium fertilizers in paddy fields.
 
Materials and Methods
In order to investigate the effects of different levels of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium fertilizers on morphological traits, yield and yield components of faba bean in paddy fields, a factorial arrangement based on randomized complete block design with three replications was conducted in two consecutive seasons at the research fields of Rice Research Institute of Iran in Rasht. Experimental treatments were three levels of nitrogen (46, 69 and 92 kg.ha^-1 from urea fertilizer source), two levels of phosphorus (48 and 96 kg.ha^-1 from triple super phosphate source) and three levels of potassium (50, 75 and 100 kg.ha^-1 from potassium sulfate source). A treatment without fertilizer usage was considered for an independent comparison. For measuring the yield and yield components of faba bean, ten plants in each plot were selected randomly after removing marginal effects and the traits were measured. The protein content of samples was determined by the Kejeldahl method. After measurement of the sample total nitrogen by applying factor 6.25, the seed protein content was measured. Data was analyzed using SAS 9.1 and mean comparisons were done by least significant difference (LSD) test at the 5% probability level.
 
Results and Discussion
The orthogonal analysis results revealed that the fertilizer treatment had a significant effect on all measured traits of faba bean. The results of variance analysis showed that nitrogen fertilizer had significant effects on all studied traits of faba bean except seeds per pod. The application of phosphorus fertilizer significantly affected branch number, pods per plant, seeds per plant, protein content, pod yield, biological yield, grain yield and protein yield. Among nitrogen levels, the highest plant height, branch number, pods per plant, seeds per plant, 100-seed weight, pod yield, biological yield, grain yield and protein yield were obtained by applying 92 kg.ha^-1. The yield and yield components of faba bean were improved with increasing rate of phosphorus fertilizer, and the highest pods per plant (18.8), seeds per pod (4.6), seeds per plant (46.5), grain yield (3996.9 kg.ha^-1), pod yield (13385 kg.ha^-1), biological yield (34442 kg.ha^-1), and protein yield (1233.2 kg.ha^-1) were obtained due to addition of 96 kg.ha^-1. The pods per plant, seeds per pod, pod yield, grain yield and protein yield were significantly increased with increasing rates of potassium up to 100 kg.ha^-1.
 
 
Conclusions
According to the results and due to large areas of paddy fields in northern provinces of Iran, use of the areas for faba bean cultivation after rice harvesting can be a helpful solution for sustainable rice production, achieving self-sufficiency and ensuring food security. Overall, the results suggest that applying nitrogen (92 kg.ha^-1), phosphorus (96 kg.ha^-1), and potassium (100 kg.ha^-1) fertilizers is recommended to achieve maximum yield and sustainable production of faba beans as a second crop in the paddy fields of Guilan province.

Abstract Introduction
Chickpeas, with 37.8 % of the total production of pulses, ranked first in Iran and produced 168142.5 t.ha^-1 in 439872 ha of area harvested. The largest area under cultivation of chickpea is located in Kermanshah, Kurdistan and Lorestan provinces in Iran. Various strategies for weed management can be used in autumn-sown chickpea, including application of interrow cultivator, crop management (crop rotations) and application of herbicides. Herbicide can be considered as one of the effective measures to reduce weed damage in chickpea. Like other pulses, chickpea is more likely damaged by post (post emergence) herbicides than PRE (pre emergence) herbicides. This indicates the limitations of herbicides, especially post-emergence herbicides for broadleaf weeds in chickpeas. Ccurrently, only few herbicides are recommended for chickpea in Iran. Farmers in Iran prefer to manage weeds, by hand weeding or using cultivator between rows, due to potential risk of herbicide damages, high cost involved in herbicide applications, and limited herbicide options for selective weed control. Considering the wide range of weed species in chickpeas in different regions of Iran, autumn-sown requires herbicides that provide a broader spectrum of weed control. Furthermore, the preventing of weed resistance to herbicides makes it necessary to increase the diversity of herbicides. In this regard, the purpose of this study was to compare new PRE-herbicide (flumioxazin) with different rates as IBS, PRE, and early-post with previously used herbicides, in terms of weed control and subsequently increase grain yield of chickpea.
 
Materials and Methods
This experiment was carried out in Kermanshah, West Azerbaijan and Hamadan during crop year 2021-2022, Iran. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 12 treatments and four replicates. Treatments included pre-emergence (PRE) application of novagap (aclonifen 600 SC) at 1, 2, 3 and 4 l.ha^-1, oxyfluorfen (SC 24%) at 0.7 l.ha^-1, clean sheet (flumioxazin, WP 50%) at100 g.ha^-1, post-emergence (POST) application of aclonifen at 1, 1.5, 2 and 2.5 l.ha^-1, PRE application of oxyfluorfen at 0.7 l.ha^-1+POST application of aclonifen at 1.5 l.ha^-1 and hand weeding. 30 days after post-emergence spraying, density and dry weight of weeds per plot were determined and compared with untreated control. At harvesting, grain yield, plant height and dry weight of chickpea was measured per unit area. Variance analysis of chickpea data was also done through SAS software, and then the averages were compared based on Duncan's test (p<0.05).
 
Results and Discussion
At kermanshah visual evaluation results showed that the highest reduction in weeds (87 to 90%) was observed in PRE application of aclonifen at 2, 3 and 4 l.ha^-1 and flumioxazin without any significant difference. In addition, PRE application of aclonifen 2 l.ha^-1 had a very good efficiency (91-100%) in reducing the density and dry weight of weeds of R. rugosum, C. album and C. orientalis. Also, C. intybus and C. oxycantha were controlled by this treatment with a lower percentage (72-81%). The highest grain yields of chickpea in Kermanshah (590.5 to 609 kg.ha^-1) was observed in the PRE aclonifen at 2 and 3 l. ha^-1 that had no significant difference with hand weeding. At Hamadan, the highest weed control efficiency (95%) found in aclonifen at 2, 3 and 4 l.ha^-1, flumioxazin, oxyflourfen and oxyfluorfen + aclonifen. The results in Hamedan showed that flumioxazin, post aclonifen 2.5 l.ha^-1 and PRE aclonifen 2, 3 and 4 l.ha^-1, oxyfluorfen and oxyfluorfen + aclonifen favorably reduced the density of D. Sophia, Alyssum spp. and total weeds. In the visual evaluation, the highest efficiency belonged to aclonifen at 4 l.ha^-1, followed by PRE aclonifen at 2 and 3 l. ha^-1, flumioxazin and oxyfluorfen + aclonifen. At Hamedan, PRE aclonifen at 2 l. ha^-1 and flumioxazin had the highest grain yield of chickpea with 309 and 322 kg.ha^-1, respectively, and there was no statistically significant difference with each other and hand weeding treatment. At West Azerbayjan, the highest weed control (84 to 86%) belonged to a PRE application of aclonifen at 3 and 4 l.ha^-1 and POST application of aclonifen at 2.5 l.ha^-1 that there was no significant difference between them. At West Azerbayjan, after hand weeding, aclonifen 3 l. ha^-1 and flumioxazin had the highest grain yield of chickpea with 1251 and 1254 kg.ha^-1, respectively.
 
Conclusions
According to the results, aclonifen is recommended as a pre-emergence application at 2 to 3 l.ha^-1 and flumioxazin at 100 g.ha^-1 for the control of broadleaf weeds in rainfed autumn- sown chickpea.

Abstract Introduction
Cowpea is among the most important plants of the legume family, being a good source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Cowpeas are also cost-effective and have high nutritional value. It has been shown that priming seeds with zinc can improve seedling vigor, growth, and overall plant performance. Priming seeds with ZnSO₄ has been found to increase plant tolerance to environmental stress such as drought and water deficiency. Overall, it has been well-documented that priming seeds with zinc can be a promising practice for improving crop productivity under environmental stresses. Considering the simplicity of this technique and the widespread use of priming seeds with nutrients, this experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of priming seeds with zinc sulfate on some physiological traits, improvement in drought tolerance, and seed yield of two cowpea varieties.
 
Materials and Methods 
The present study was conducted to investigate the effect of seed priming with zinc sulfate on the plant growth and yield performance of two different varieties of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) under two different soil water content conditions. The experiment was carried out as a pot experiment in 2022 at the greenhouse of the Faculty of Agriculture, Ilam University. Treatments were replicated four times. The three main factors included the irrigation level (irrigation at 70% or 50% of the field capacity), the cowpea genotype (local and Mashhad), and the priming of seeds with zinc sulfate (hydropriming, prime level 1, prime level 2). Seeds were primed in either 0.14% or 0.28% zinc solution. ZnSO₄.7H₂O was used as the source of zinc. After surface sterilization, seeds were soaked in a solution with different concentrations of zinc sulfate (‎0.14% or 0.28%‎) for 5 hours at a ratio of 1:3 distilled seed to solution (w.v^-1). 20 seeds were planted in each pot. Plants at the 4-5 leaf stage were subjected to well-watered and water-stressed conditions. At the 50% flowering stage, leaf samples were randomly taken from 5 plants in each pot, and various plant growth and physiological characteristics such as fresh and dry weight, plant height, leaf surface area and weight, as well as the rates of photosynthesis and transpiration, leaf relative humidity, and leakage rate were measured.
 
Results and Discussion 
The results of the analysis of variance of the present study showed that the effect of water deficiency on some growth, physiological and biochemical traits such as leaf area and weight, photosynthesis rate, transpiration intensity, electrolyte leakage, water ratio per thousand seed weight, and harvest index was significant. Treatments affected by seed priming with zinc showed better growth performance under stress conditions than control treatments (no priming). Additionally, the effect of the variety on traits such as photosynthesis rate, and harvest index was significant. The highest leaf weight (7.10 g) was observed in the irrigation treatment with 70% of field capacity (FC), Mashhad variety, and prime level 2, while the lowest leaf weight (2.11 g) was recorded in the irrigation treatment with 50% of crop capacity, local variety, and hydropriming. The Mashhad cultivar exhibited a higher photosynthesis rate (4.99 μMol CO₂.m^-2.S^-1) than the local cultivar (4.65 μMolCO₂.m^-2.S^-1). The application of 70% FC led to a two-fold increase in the rate of photosynthesis (6.07 μMol CO₂.m^-2.S^-1) compared to irrigation with 50% of FC (3.56 μMol CO₂.m^-2.S^-1). The highest and lowest transpiration rates were observed under the conditions of no stress in the Mashhad cultivar (160.1 mmol H₂O.m^-2.S^-1) and under the conditions of stress in the local cultivar (0.72 mmol H₂O.m^-2.S^-1), respectively. Under low irrigation, the lowest (46%) and highest (49%) percentage of electrolyte leakage were obtained in priming level 2 and hydropriming, respectively. Regarding the traits related to yield, the highest number of pods per plant (8.22) was obtained in the Mashhad variety under well-irrigation conditions (70% FC), and the lowest amount (5.56) was obtained in the local variety with 50% FC. Under well-watered conditions (70% FC), the Mashhad variety had an 18% superiority in the number of seeds per plant compared to the local variety. The highest amount of seed yield in the pot was obtained under well-watered conditions and priming with 0.28% zinc solution resulting in a 28% increase compared to 50% FC and hydroprime. The use of the Mashhad cultivar under well-watered conditions led to the production of the highest harvest index (53.85%), while applying water deficit reduced the harvest index to 39.71%.
 
Conclusions
Drought stress and water deficiency are the most significant constraints contributing to reduced bean yields in arid and semi-arid regions. The findings of the present study indicate that water deficit stress can significantly decline plant yield, but seed priming with zinc could mitigate the negative effects of water stress, particularly on the plant's physiological traits. Priming seeds with zinc resulted in improved photosynthesis and subsequently increased seed yield compared to control seeds

Abstract Introduction
Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), with an average production of 439 kg.ha^-1, is one of the most important pulses that holds a special place in rain-fed conservation farming systems in Kermanshah, Kordestan and Lorestan provinces of Iran. Recently, it covers 6.9% of the cultivated land area for agricultural products and accounts for 5.3% of the total rain-fed crop production, placing it fourth in rank. High distance between global mean of grain yield (1038 kg.ha^-1) and Iran (439 kg.ha^-1) is significant and weeds are the most important limiting factors in chickpea production systems in Iran, and due to the limited registered herbicides, increasing row spacing and using non-selective herbicides by shielded sprayers is one of the other ways for application of these herbicides in chickpea farming. Optimizing chickpea row-spacing and the application possibility of non-selective herbicides in chickpea was our objective in this experiment.
 
Materials and Methods
In order to study planting pattern and chemical control effects on weed population and yield of rain-fed chickpea farming, two experiments conducted. Field experiments were conducted in East Azerbaijan and Hamadan provinces and greenhouse experiment was in Alborz province of Iran in 2021-2022. The field and greenhouse experiments were conducted as completely randomized block design and a completely randomized design with four replications, respectively. In field experiment, two intra-rows spacing of chickpea (35 and 53 cm) and seven herbicides (including: imazethapyr (Pursuit^® SL 10%) at a rate of 100 ml.ai ha^-1, imazethapyr (Pursuit^® SL 10%), at a rate of 100 ml.ai.ha^-1 +cytogate (at a rate of 2%), oxyfluorfen (Goal^® EC 24%), at a rate of 168 ml.ai.ha^-1, phenmedipham + desmedipham +ethofumesat (Betanal progress OF^®. EC 27.4%), in two rates: 160 and 300 ml.ai.ha^-1, protected application of imazethapyr (Pursuit^® SL 10%), at a rate of 100 ml.ai.ha^-1+ paraquat (Gramoxone^® SL 20%), at a rate of 600 ml.ai.ha^-1, protected application of paraquat (Gramoxone^® SL 20%), at a rate of 600 ml.ai.ha^-1, pyridate ((Lentagran^®  EC 60%), at a rate of 1200 ml.ai.ha^-1 and control were evaluated. In green house experiment, different doses of Phenmedipham+ Desmedipham+ Ethofumesat (Betanal progress OF^® in 411, 548, 685 and 822 ml.ai.ha^-1) and its application time (2, 4, 6 and 8 leaf stages) were tested. Weed dry weight, visual evaluation and chickpea grain yield were evaluated 30 days after treatments and in the end of experiment and data were analyzed by Sas, Mstatc and Sigmaplot software and means were compared by Duncan.
 
Results and Discussion
Dominant weeds in two locations were Alyssum spp., Descurainia sophia, Acroptilon repens, Galium aparin, Polygonum aviculare, Astragalus sp., Euphorbia spp., Fumaria parviflora, Poa spp., Gypsophila spp., Allium spp., Falcaria vulgaris and Geranium spp. Field results indicated that all herbicides had the same effect on the weed dry weight and chickpea grain yield at both planting row distance. Therefore, the distance between chickpea planting rows can be increased up to 53 cm for the use of shielded sprayers. In terms of herbicide efficacy in the Hamadan and Maragheh regions, protected application of Imazethapyr + Paraquat was found to be the best treatment for weed control. This treatment resulted in an average weed dry weight of 1.7 grams per square meter in Hamadan and 7.3 grams per square meter in Maragheh. With this treatment, weed dry weight was reduced by approximately 94.4% and 69.9% compared to the control, respectively. Chickpea grain yield was highest with Imazethapyr + Cytogate and Pyridate, resulting in an increase of approximately 83% and 75.4%, respectively, compared to the control in Maragheh region. In Hamadan region, Oxyfluorfen showed an increase in chickpea grain yield up to 122.7%, Pyridate up to 125.4%, and Imazethapyr + Paraquat up to 111.7% compared to the control. Betanal progress OF® (at a rate of 3 l.ha^-1) also exhibited good weed control but like Imazetapyr, is not recommended for use due to its damage on chickpea growth and grain yield. Additionally, Paraquat has been removed from the registered list in Iran; therefore, it is not recommended for application on chickpeas either.
 
Conclusions
For improved weed control in chickpea, it is recommended to increase row spacing to 53 cm and use a protected application of non-selective herbicides (such as Imazethapyr). However, it is important to note that Paraquat has been removed from the list of registered herbicides in Iran and cannot be recommended for weed control in chickpea. Instead, other approved non-selective herbicides can be recommended, provided they are applied using a shielded sprayer. Additionally, Betanal progress OF® is also caused damage to chickpea in both field and greenhouse conditions and it do not recommend.

Abstract Introduction
To identify and introduce cultivars with high yield and stability, evaluating the genotype-by-environment interaction in multi-environment trials is of paramount importance. One of the most significant challenges for lentil breeders is selecting genotypes with high yield across diverse environments. Assessing genotypes in different environments can lead to the identification of genotype(s) with high yield potential and yield stability. Genotypes exhibiting lower responses to environmental effects typically have lower genotype × environment interactions and are desirable selections for breeders, especially if they demonstrate higher yield potential compared to control. Various univariate and multivariate methods exist for evaluating genotype-environment interactions. This study evaluated the grain yield stability of advanced lentil genotypes in tropical climates using two methods: univariate (non-parametric statistics) and multivariate (additive main effects and multiplicative interaction, AMMI).
 
Materials and Methods
 Fifteen selected genotypes along with two check cultivars, Gachsaran and Sephar, were evaluated in a randomized complete block design with three replications across eight environments (four warm and semi-warm regions: Gachsaran, Khorramabad, Moghan, and Ilam over two years). Each experimental plot consisted of four rows, 6 meters long, with a plant density of 200 plants per square meter. Grain yield was measured after harvest. To analyze the data, after ensuring the homogeneity of error variances across environments using Bartlett's test, a combined analysis of variance was performed for the eight studied environments. The METAN package in the Rver4.3.2 statistical software was used for AMMI analysis, calculation of non-parametric statistics, and plotting AMMI1 and AMMI2 biplots.
 
Results and Discussion
The results of the combined analysis of variance for grain yield (based on the AMMI model) showed that the effects of environment, genotype and the interaction of genotype × environment were significant at the statistical probability level of 1%. Considering the significance of the genotype × environment interaction, it is possible to perform stability analyze on data in order to interpret this interaction. Stability analysis using the non-parametric TOP statistic, identified genotypes 12 and 10 as the most stable genotypes. The Kang statistic also ranked genotypes 12 and 13 as the best genotypes. Among the non-parametric statistics, TOP and Kang placed high-yielding genotypes at the top of the yield stability rankings, whereas the rankings based on Thennarasu , Nassar and Huehn statistics favored genotypes with lower mean yields. According to the Thennarasu statistic, genotypes 5, 6, and 2 were identified as the most stable, but all three had low mean yields. Similarly, genotypes with high yield stability based on the Nassar and Huehn statistics, had low mean yields. By calculating the SIIG statistic and considering all non-parametric statistics, genotype 12 was found to have the best combination of yield and yield stability. In addition to this genotype, genotypes 13, 1, and 11 could also be considered desirable, considering both yield and stability. One of the most widely used multivariate methods for stability analysis is the additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) model. The results of the combined analysis of variance for grain yield based on the AMMI model showed that the first three principal components of the genotype × environment interaction were significant, explaining approximately 40.4%, 26.5%, and 19.8% (a total of 86.7% for the first three components and 67.1% for the first two components) of the genotype × environment interaction, respectively. The AMMI1 biplot, considering mean grain yield and the value of the first principal component, identified genotypes 10, 11, and 12 as superior genotypes. The AMMI2 biplot, considering the values of the first and second principal components, also identified genotype 12 as the most stable in terms of grain yield. The two check cultivars, Gachsaran and Sephar, showed lower yield stability than the superior genotypes based on both biplots. Genotypes positioned at the center of the biplot exhibit general stability and are recommended for cultivation across most of the investigated environments. In contrast, genotypes located farther from the center and closer to specific environments demonstrate stability exclusive to those environments. In this regard, genotype 3 exhibited specific adaptation to environment 4, while genotypes 13 and 14 showed specific adaptation to environments 2 and 1, respectively.
 
Conclusions
Based on the obtained results, genotype 12 stands out as the best performer in terms of both high yield and stability. Therefore, it can be considered a promising candidate for release as a new cultivar in warm and semi-warm regions.

Abstract Introduction
Introducing improved bean cultivars with desirable characteristics such as high yield, large and marketable seeds, tolerant to environmental stress, erect growth type and suitable for mechanized harvesting are most important improvement goals in releasing new bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cultivars. These characteristics are considered in the manual for the implementation of the bean agronomic value test (VCU). The aim of current research is to evaluate the agricultural value, yield and other important agricultural characteristics of a pinto bean cultivar (Negin) applying for commercialization in the most important bean growing climates in Iran.
 
Materials and Methods
In this experiment, candidate pinto been cultivar (Negin) along with 4 control cultivars (Sembol, Sepehr, Saleh and Kusha) were studied in 3 locations (Khomein, Ardabil and Esfahan) based on complete randomized block design experiment in 4 replications during two crop seasons (2021-2022 and 2022-2023). Characteristics listed in the "Manual for the implementation of the bean agronomic value test" include the number of days until flowering, the number of days until physiological maturity, plant height, first pod height, pods number per plant, seeds number per pod, pod shedding, the weight of 100 seeds, the yield of seeds fresh weight and water absorption capacity were recorded.
 
Results and Discussion
Results showed that flowering occurred significantly earlier in Negin candidate cultivar (42.3 days) than control cultivars. Early flowering is considered as an important factor influencing yield of bean cultivars. This feature makes the flowering process start earlier before the onset of environmental stresses such as drought and high temperature. Also, in early flowering cultivars, the seed filling period will be longer. Seed ripening in Negin candidate cultivar occurred 5 days earlier than determinate control cultivars (mean ripening period 82.1 days) and 12 days earlier than indeterminate control cultivars (mean ripening period 89.5 days). Early ripening is not only an escape mechanism from end-season stresses such as drought, but it is also important because enables the early production and bringing to the appropriate market price, and for this reason many bean breeding programs in the world are focused on introducing of early cultivars. Among the studied cultivars, the number of seeds per pod in Kusha cultivar was significantly higher than the other studied cultivars, while this trait in Saleh, Sepehr and Negin cultivars was less than Kusha cultivar. In all 3 study locations, Sembol determinate cultivar had the highest hundred seed weight (52.9 g) and after that the other determinate cultivars (Negin and sepehr) had the highest hundred seed weight (48.9 g and 46.53 g respectively). Seed yield of determinate candidate cultivar (4235.8 kg.ha^-1) was significantly more than other determinate Sepehr and Sembol cultivars (4027.1 kg.ha^-1 and 34463.8 kg.ha^-1 respectively) and seed yield of Negin cultivar had not significant difference with seed yield of indeterminate Saleh cultivar. In terms of performance, the Negin cultivar outperformed other determinate cultivars and matched the performance level of one indeterminate cultivar. Among the studied cultivars, Sembol showed the highest water absorption capacity, followed by Kusha, Saleh, Sepehr, and Negin. Thus, the Negin candidate cultivar exhibited the lowest water absorption capacity.
 
Conclusion
The Negin candidate cultivar has strong potential as a new germplasm for national bean production due to its erect growth habit and ease of mechanical harvesting, early flowering and maturity, reduced water requirement (one to two times less), good marketability, and ability to produce larger seeds.
 
Acknowledgement
This article is extracted from the research project of the Seed and Plant Certification and Registration Institute under the approved number 04-08-08-040-011096 dated 2024/06/15, which is hereby thanked and appreciated.

Abstract Introduction
Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is a vital legume, rich in protein and nutrients, that is significantly impacted by the two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae), leading to substantial economic losses in agricultural fields. Given the limitations of chemical control and its environmental consequences, the identification and utilization of resistant cultivars represent a sustainable approach to pest management. Various studies have demonstrated that certain bean genotypes possess morphological and physiological characteristics that effectively reduce mite populations. To date, a comprehensive assessment of bean genotype resistance to T. urticae under the climatic conditions of Ilam province has not been conducted. This research aims to evaluate the resistance of 25 bean genotypes to this pest under field conditions in Ilam, with the goal of identifying resistant varieties for integration into breeding programs and sustainable agricultural practices.
 
Materials and Methods
This research was conducted during the 2021-2022 growing season at the research farm of Ilam University to identify resistant and high-yielding bean varieties against T. urticae. Twenty-five bean genotypes (10 cultivars and 15 lines), including the susceptible cultivar "Akhtar," were obtained from the gene bank of Tehran University and planted in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Following spring plowing, planting was carried out in June 2021, and irrigation was performed using the flood irrigation method every 3 to 4 days. Symptoms of infestation appeared during the flowering stage, and the extent of damage to the leaves was assessed using a five-point scale (0 = no infestation, 4 = severe damage). Phenological traits (days to flowering and podding) and morphological traits (plant height, pod length and width, number of seeds and pods) were measured, and the yield of each genotype was calculated based on the total weight of the seeds.
 
Results and Discussion
 The results of this research indicated that there was considerable genetic diversity for all of the traits that were investigated. Based on the results of analysis of variance, the results of analysis of variance showed that there was a significant difference between genotypes in terms of all traits at the 1% level. Genotypes "Goli" and "D81083" were identified as the most resistant and had the highest yield (101.5 g per plant), while genotype "288" showed the most susceptibility and the lowest yield (0.42 g per plant). Cultivar "Goli" had the highest number of pods (37.7 per plant), and cultivar "323" had the lowest number of pods (2.67 per plant). Additionally, cultivar "Goli" had the highest number of seeds per pod (5.1), and cultivar "Local Azna" had the lowest number of seeds per pod (1.8). In terms of plant height, cultivar "1090" had the tallest plants at 122.7 cm, and cultivar "Khomein" had the shortest plants at 36.1 cm. The greatest pod length (10.6 cm) was observed in cultivar "Derakhshan," and the shortest length (1.6 cm) in cultivar "79EMERSON." A significant negative correlation between mite damage and yield (r = -0.78) indicated that increased damage leads to lower yield. Cluster analysis divided the genotypes into four groups, with genotypes "Goli" and "D81083" in the resistant group and genotypes "1090" and "288" in the susceptible group. These results confirm that the use of resistant genotypes can help reduce pest damage and increase yield. Correlation analysis showed that the level of pest damage has a negative and significant correlation with yield and its components (r=-0.78). Cluster analysis divided genotypes into four groups: resistant, semi-resistant, semi-susceptible, and susceptible.
 
Conclusions
High genetic diversity was observed in the studied cultivars and lines; cultivar 288 was the most sensitive, and cultivars D81083 and Goli were the most resistant and high yielding. There was a positive correlation between the number of pods and seeds per plant with seed yield. Cluster analysis divided the cultivars into four groups, with the fourth group including the D81083 and Goli cultivars having the best performance and resistance.

Abstract Introduction
Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), a key legume of the Fabaceae family, is cultivated as a winter or spring crop, primarily under rainfed conditions, in western and northwestern of Iran. To position chickpea as a viable alternative in cereal-based rotations and enhance its contribution to sustainable agriculture, agronomic practices—especially nutrient management—must be thoroughly optimized and studied.  Nitrogen (N), the most critical macronutrient for plant growth and yield enhancement, is required in greater quantities than any other element. While chickpea fulfills much of its nitrogen demand via biological nitrogen fixation (BNF), a minimal "starter" N dose is essential to ensure robust seedling establishment and meet early growth requirements before effective rhizobial symbiosis is achieved. Precise determination of starter N for rainfed chickpea is critical, as excessive application increases costs, risks environmental contamination, and suppresses yields, whereas insufficient doses compromise productivity.
 
Materials and Methods
A randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications was employed during the 2022–2023 growing season to evaluate the N requirements of rainfed chickpea (cv. Ana) under cold rainfed conditions in Bukan (autumn sowing) and Maragheh (autumn and spring sowing). Treatments included five urea levels: 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 kg ha⁻¹. Following reduced tillage (using a combination tillage implement), chickpea seeds were sown at 40 seeds m⁻². Autumn sowing occurred in October 2023, and spring sowing in late February 2024, using an ASKE 3-shank 11-row planter with 53–17 cm row spacing. Experimental plots measured 10 × 30 m. Urea was applied via subsurface banding (5–6 cm below seeds) at sowing. Measured parameters included root traits (length, volume, dry weight, nodule weight), plant height, 100-seed weight, biological yield, grain yield, harvest index, and rainwater use efficiency.
 
Results and Discussion
Environmental effects significantly influenced root length, nodule weight, root volume, dry weight, plant height, biological yield, grain yield, rainwater use efficiency (p ≤ 0.01), and 100-seed weight (p ≤ 0.05). Nitrogen levels significantly affected all parameters (p ≤ 0.01), except 100-seed weight (p ≤ 0.05). Autumn-sown Bukan exhibited superior root traits, plant height, and yields compared to Maragheh. Root length, volume, and dry weight declined with increasing N, likely due to restricted root growth from urea banding at higher doses. Enhanced nodulation in Bukan may reflect its soil’s native rhizobia populations, as Maragheh lacks prior legume cultivation. Elevated soil fertility and favorable climatic conditions in Bukan further supported root development. Excessive mineral N inhibited rhizobial symbiosis, reducing nodule weight. Plant height and 100-grain weight peaked at 50 kg ha⁻¹ N in Bukan (57 cm, 6 cm above control). In autumn-sown Bukan, grain yield plateaued at 25 kg ha⁻¹ N, while Maragheh achieved maxima at 75 kg ha⁻¹ (autumn) and 50 kg ha⁻¹ (spring). The highest harvest index (48%) occurred at 50 kg ha⁻¹ N in spring-sown Maragheh. Starter N bolstered early growth and photosynthetic capacity, enhancing yields. Moderate N optimized harvest index by favoring grain over biomass allocation. Rainwater use efficiency (RUE) was higher in autumn-sown chickpea in Bukan compared to both autumn- and spring-sown crops in Maragheh. Furthermore, RUE initially increased with rising nitrogen application rates but declined at elevated doses. Regression analysis of grain yield against urea application rates revealed maximum achievable yields of 1535 and 940 kg ha⁻¹ for autumn-sown rainfed chickpea in Bukan and Maragheh, respectively. To attain these yields, starter urea doses of 62 and 61 kg ha⁻¹ were required for Bukan and Maragheh. For spring-sown chickpea in Maragheh, the peak grain yield was 835 kg ha⁻¹, achievable with a urea input of 43 kg ha⁻¹. The minimal urea requirements for maximizing net economic returns were 60 kg ha⁻¹ for autumn-sown chickpea in both regions, whereas spring-sown systems in Maragheh required 42 kg ha⁻¹. Simple correlation analyses between grain yield and yield components demonstrated that grain yield showed the strongest positive correlations with biological yield, plant height, and root dry weight, in descending order of magnitude. Similarly, rainwater use efficiency exhibited the highest positive correlations with grain yield, biological yield, and plant height, respectively. The robust correlations between grain yield and these traits suggest that these parameters likely exert direct influences on grain yield.
 
Conclusions
Excessive nitrogen fertilization leads to salinity, toxicity, and disruption of symbiotic relationships, offsetting potential yield benefits. A minimal starter dose of 42 kg ha⁻¹ urea is sufficient for spring-sown chickpea, while 60 kg ha⁻¹ urea maximizes economic returns in autumn-sown systems. Precision in N management is critical to balance productivity, sustainability, and environmental stewardship in rainfed chickpea cultivation.

Abstract Introduction
Salinity stress is one of the limiting factors for plant growth and production in arid and semi-arid regions of the world. The use of potassium silicate as the second most common element in soil is one of the strategies used to reduce the effects of environmental stresses such as salinity. Considering the increasing challenge of water and soil salinity and its limiting effects on the growth, development, and production of faba bean, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of potassium silicate on improving germination and growth indices, and to determine the tolerance threshold of faba bean seeds to salinity stress.
 
Materials and Methods
A factorial experiment was conducted based on completely randomized design with four replications at the Laboratory of Ilam University, Iran, in 2024. The experimental factors were included potassium silicate at four levels (0, 50, 100, and 150 mg.l^-1) and five levels of salinity stress (0, 1, 4, 8, and 10 dS.m^-1). The germination criterion was the protrugen of a radicle length up to 2 mm. At the end of the experiment, germination indices (germination percentage, germination rate, seed vigor index) and seedling growth (root and seedling dry weight and length) were measured.
 
Results and Discussion
The application of potassium silicate under non-salinity stress conditions (salinity of 0 and 1 dS.m^-1) had no significant effect on the germination percentage of faba bean seeds; however, the germination percentage increased by 20.7, 23.8, and 26.7 percent with the application of 150 mg.l^-1 of potassium silicate under salinity stress conditions of 4, 8, and 10 dS.m^-1, respectively. The germination rate of faba bean seeds under non-salt stress conditions was not affected by pretreatment with potassium silicate. The germination rate of faba bean seeds with application of 150 mg.l^-1 of potassium silicate under salinity stress conditions of 8 and 10 dS.m^-1 was 23.9 and 26.7 percent higher than without its application, respectively. Under non-salinity stress conditions, application of 100 mg l^-1 potassium silicate increased the vigor index of faba bean seeds by 25.4% compared to the control. Under salinity stress conditions of 8 dS.m^-1, application of 50 and 150 mg l^-1 potassium silicate improved the vigor index of faba bean seeds by 73.7% and 79.0%, respectively. Salinity stress at levels of 1, 4, 8, and 10 dS.m^-1 reduced the length of faba bean rootlets by 21.8, 39.7, 44.2, and 60.0%, respectively, compared to the absence of salinity stress. The highest shoot dry weight (0.414 g.plant^-1) was observed with the application of 100 mg.l^-1 potassium silicate under non-salt stress conditions, which was 8.5% higher compared to the control. Under 10 dS.m^-1 salt stress conditions, the application of 100 and 150 mg.l^-1 potassium silicate improved the shoot dry weight of faba bean by 86.5 and 66.5% compared to the control. The highest root dry weight (0.419 g.plant^-1) was observed with the application of 100 mg.l^-1 potassium silicate under no salt stress conditions, which was 11.5% higher compared to control. Under 10 dS.m^-1 salt stress conditions, the application of 100 and 150 mg l^-1 potassium silicate improved the dry weight of faba bean root by 60.1 and 65.6% compared to the control. According to the Moss and Hoffman’s equation, the tolerance threshold to salinity stress in faba bean based on relative germination without the application of potassium silicate was 0.52 and its decreasing slope was 5.48. The threshold of tolerance to salinity stress in faba bean with the application of 50, 100, and 150 mg.l^-1 of potassium silicate was 0.62, 0.22, and 1.32 and its decreasing slope was 5.5, 93.4, and 22.4, respectively. Based on the three-parameter sigmoid model, the salinity stress that reduced bean seed germination by 50% by applying different amounts of 0, 50, 100, and 150 mg.l^-1 of potassium silicate was 8.75, 9.41, 9.38, and 10.10 dS.m^-1, respectively.
 
Conclusions
It can be concluded that the faba bean plant is sensitive to salinitySeed priming with potassium silicate at concentrations of 100 and 150 mg.l⁻¹ effectively mitigates salt stress in faba bean and significantly enhances the plant's tolerance to salinity.