Effect of elevated CO2 on growth and yield of French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) genotypes

The elevated CO2, levels are known to increase crop growth. French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) being an important cool season legume vegetable, with C-3 CO2 fixation mechanism, is likely to be benefitted by higher CO2 level. Hence, a study was initiated to quantify the response of two promising French bean cultivars, viz., Arka Komal and Arka Anoop to elevated CO2 concentrations of 550 ppm as compared to ambient levels of 380 ppm in open top chambers (OTCs). Significantly higher leaf area, root dry weight and total thy matter accumulation was recorded at 550 ppm elevated CO2 which was translated into significant increase in number of flowers and subsequently pod yield in cv. Arka Anoop compared to Arka Komal.