A review of pollination and pod setting in faba beans (Vicia faba L)

The faba bean has had a reputation for poor and inconsistent yields for many years in the UK and NW Europe compared to the major cereal species. Research work has demonstrated that pollination, fertilisation and seed setting ave variable in expression within a complex set of patterns, all of which are subject to interaction with factors within the plant itself and with changing environmental conditions. For many years, plant breeders have been unable to make much headway since various compensating factors operate, e.g. inbreeding depression and self-fertility of cross-breds. However, the improved performance of the newer varieties has hopefully indicated that, as a result of a better understanding of the complexities involved in natural pollination and the components of yield, breeders have been able to improve substantially the competitive position of Vicia faba as a crop in relation to cereals. While weather conditions will continue to play a major part in field performance, a better understanding of the agronomy of the crop by advisers and growers will ensure that future prospects become less uncertain.