The Insertion Method: a new and efficient technique for intra- and interspecific hybridization in Phaseolus beans

Different techniques for the crossing of beans have been described (Bliss, 1980; Buishand, 1956; CIAT, 1982; Lorz, 1957; Okonkwo and Clayberg. 1984; Strand, 1943; Wade, 1943; Wester and Jorgensen, 1950; Wester and Marth, 1949; Wigton, 1959). The rubbing and hooking methods of Buishand (1956) are widely used in breeding programs. Considerable success has been obtained using Buishand's techniques. For example, in the breeding program at CIAT, 50% efficiency has been reported using a combination of the rubbing and hooking methods under controlled conditions (CIAT, 1982). Buishand himself reported 30% and 70% success for the rubbing and hooking methods, respectively.