Dabbs, D.H.2012-07-252013-01-042013-07-252013-01-041977-041977-04April 1977http://hdl.handle.net/10388/etd-07252012-141219There exists a tremendous potential for the production of highvalue cash crops in Saskatchewan with the development of several large irrigation projects in the province. In such a semi-arid region moisture is undoubtedly the most important limiting factor in reaching the maximum production potential. In order to compete in today's competitive market, it is imperative that production costs are kept at a minimum, and that economic use is made of water and irrigation systems. Snap beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are well suited for crop production under irrigation. Favorable yield responses to irrigation and yield losses under high moisture stress conditions have commonly been reported. The existence of critical moisture-sensitive growth periods have also been demonstrated in snap beans. This sensitivity is not restricted to moisture stress, but to moisture excess as well. The optimum moisture level during any growth stage in snap beans, however, is not well defined. If any growth phases during the ontogeny of the snap bean are resistant to moderate stress for short periods of time, or if certain phases prefer a moisture level of less than field capacity, it could result in savings due to increased yields, as well as reduced water requirement. The aim of this study at the University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, was to quantify the effects of a moderate moisture stress for relatively short periods of time and during consecutive phases of growth on the yield and development of snap beans. Note:Page 33 is missing in the original thesis.en-UStext