Understanding the crop growth and yield response to variable irrigation and the relationship between crop eco-physiological and morphological parameters is critical for identifying a balanced irrigation management strategy and developing decision support systems for early detection and information for on-ground decisions. Experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of variable irrigation treatments on dry bean [Phaseolus vulgaris L.] growth traits (plant height, leaf area index,

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... difference vegetation index), seed yield (SY), and yield components (pods plant−1, seeds pod−1, 100-seed weight (SW), and pod harvest index (PHI)) and to develop empirical models between dry bean growth and environmental conditions, SY, and yield components. Five irrigation treatments i.e., FIT (full irrigation treatment), 125% FIT, 75% FIT, 50% FIT, and 25% FIT were investigated. Water deficit at the beginning of the crop growth [vegetative growth (V1-V2) stage], dramatically reduced dry bean growth and development and resulted in a significant reduction in SY. However, the degree to which vegetative growth and SY was reduced depends on the weather conditions. Reducing irrigation by 25% below FIT resulted in an average reduction of 30% in SY. This reduction in SY was significantly correlated with a decline in pods plant−1 and SW. Moreover, the empirical models between growth traits and growing degree days (GDD) have a strong correlation, while growth traits and SY and yield components are moderately correlated. The data and empirical models presented in this research provide valuable information in predicting and estimating dry bean SY in-season and allow for corrective management decisions.