SUMMARYEffects of inflorescence removal under different plant densities and degrees of shading on seed yield of field beans (Vicia faba L.) were investigated. Two indeterminate cultivars were used in field experiments for two seasons (1985 and 1986). The hierarchy within the generative storage system of field bean plants was manipulated by removal of inflorescences at various growth stages and nodes.Removal of the inflorescences of nodes 1–3 (counted from the base upwards) caused about 30% loss of seed yield potential compared with the control but compensatory increases in seed yield were found, differing with plant density and duration of shading. Under favourable growing conditions (no shading, 20 plants/m2), overcompensation occurred, giving a mean seed yield up to 40% more than in controls.Removal of all inflorescences above the ninth flowering node did not significantly reduce seed yield as plants completely compensated for the restriction on yield imposed.

SUMMARYIn studies of two indeterminate cultivars in field experiments in 1985 and 1986 at Hohenheim University, the hierarchy within the reproductive storage system of field bean plants was manipulated by removal of inflorescences at various growth stages and nodes. Shading reduced pod set and seed weight mainly at basal nodes. Increasing plant population density reduced seed yield traits at all nodes. Removal of basal inflorescences increased pod set and seed weight at the remaining nodes, especially the lower ones. The favourable effects were greater under high light intensities and in sparse stands. The growth stages at which the basal inflorescences were removed and the removal of apical inflorescences were of minor importance.