Optimizing planting date for mung bean cultivars

Abstract Mung bean [ Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] is a legume with high nutritional value and adaptability to diverse environmental conditions. However, optimizing its agronomic practices in the Midwestern United States, particularly regarding planting dates, remains underexplored. This study evaluated the effect of planting date on mung bean growth and yield in Iowa. Field experiments were conducted in 2023 and 2024, each year at a different location, using a randomized complete block design with two genotypes (ISU‐B and OK2000) and four planting dates. Early planting (mid‐May to early June) significantly improved pod length and grain yield, with maximum grain yield reaching 2527 lb ac −1 , whereas late planting (late June to early July) reduced yield by up to 46.7% and increased the risk of frost damage before maturity. Genotype × planting date interactions revealed that ISU‐B was more responsive to early planting, achieving a higher grain yield than OK2000 under early planting conditions, while OK2000 exhibited greater stability under delayed planting. These findings suggest that optimal planting dates are critical for maximizing mung bean productivity in temperate regions, with early planting offering the best grain yield potential.