Knowledge of the accumulation and distribution of phytomass in common bean plants under different levels of fertilization can improve crop management. The objective of this study was to evaluate growth, physiological indices and yield of common bean cultivars under different levels of NPK fertilization. The experiment was carried out on a dystroferric Red Nitosol , in Botucatu, State of São Paulo, in a split plot randomized block design, with four replications. Plots were constituted of six treatments (Pérola without fertilization, Pérola with 50% of recommended fertilization, Pérola with 100% of recommended fertilization, IAC Alvorada without fertilization, IAC Alvorada with 50% of recommended fertilization, and IAC Alvorada with 100% of the recommended fertilization) and subplots were made up by seven harvest times during the growth cycle. The NPK fertilization increased similarly the dry matter accumulation, yield components, and grains yield of cultivars of Pérola and IAC Alvorada. Under recommended fertilization, IAC Alvorada cultivar showed higher leaf area index and leaf dry matter accumulation than Pérola; however, with no effects on the increase of grain yield. Regardless of treatment, the maximum dry matter accumulation was achieved at 80 DAE and the highest crop growth rate occurred at 55 DAE.
Dry matter partitioning; growth analysis; growth rate; leaf area index; Phaseolus vulgaris L.
