Improvement of pulse crops in Europe

Abstract

Europe has long been far from self-sufficient in protein-rich feedstuffs for livestock and consequently has relied heavily on soybean meal imports. The European Economic Community (EEC, now European Union, EU) decided in 1978 to promote the production and use of grain legumes through guaranteed prices for producers and financial subsidies for users. As a result of this policy, production of grain legume crops has increased in recent years. The EU now produces about 36 per cent of its protein requirements and grain legumes represent 19 per cent of protein production. The environmental and agricultural reasons for increasing the production of nitrogen- fixing legumes in Europe are examined. The contribution of plant breeding and agronomy to improvement of productivity and grain quality in these crops is reviewed. Breeding strategies are analysed along with the available genetic variation and breeding methods adopted to reach major targets. Short term objectives research on phenology and cropping systems such as sowing date, fertilization, mechanization and weed control are outlined. A better understanding of the vegetative and reproductive interactions at a physiological level is essential for further advances in crop yield. Research is needed to understand and optimize the effect of the environment on phenology and adaptability, with emphasis on nitrogen fixation. Leguminous crops are needed for the rotation systems of drier areas, such as southern Europe, mostly under continuous cereal cultivation at present. Future research should focus on the development of new high-yielding legume cultivars, resistant to diseases and to moisture stress, suitable for mechanical harvesting and with improved nutritional value.