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Baldhead results when the growing point of the bean plant is damaged as it emerges from the seed coat and from the soil, leading to early branching, stunting, and poor yield. Baldhead has been associated with various conditions occurring at plant emergence, such as crusted soil, inconsistent moisture, or a cracked seed coat. Plants with baldhead have lower yields than healthy plants.

Baldhead due to soil crusting.

(Photo: Howard F. Schwartz, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org)

Management: 

• Select quality seed in which the seed coat is intact.
• Maintain consistent soil moisture to prevent surface crusting.

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