Analysis of the growth and economic productivity of irrigated beans

Bean cultivation is important worldwide both in terms of economic development and social character. It is cultivated in the most diverse types of production systems and in practically the entire Brazilian territory. However it is still considered a subsistence crop in many regions and is produced by family farms. Among the production factors that most influence the success of productive and high-quality crops water deficit is one of the most serious. The western border region of Rio Grande do Sul has great potential for bean production considering the average rainfall during the growing months. However poor distribution of rainfall during the phenological stages of the crop can lead to reduced production. Thus irrigation becomes a strong ally together with other production factors in supplementing water during critical periods so that the crop can develop and reach its maximum productive potential.