[Science News] – 5th edition of the INCREASE Citizen Science Experiment 2026
REGISTER NOW for a new adventure in bean country!
Legume lovers, passionate gardeners and those who are curious about science: join the next round of the PULSES INCREASE citizen science experiment !
All interested citizens can register for the 2026 growing season via the dedicated application "INCREASE CSA".
Registration deadline : March 31, 2026
Since its inception in 2020, the PULSES INCREASE project has been remarkably successful thanks to the active engagement of its participants. Its mission: to promote agrobiodiversity by inviting European citizens to grow and characterise a wide variety of bean varieties.
To date, more than 25,000 passionate citizens from all over Europe have joined the adventure (https://www.pulsesincrease.eu/en/experiment). Over the course of five years, participants have grown dozens of varieties, contributed valuable scientific advances, and formed a close-knit and enthusiastic community.
Who can participate?
The experience is open to all! All you need is a smartphone and a small growing spot — whether it's a field, garden, terrace, or even a simple balcony — and be ready to grow six different varieties of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) throughout the season.
How does it work?
Each new participant receives seeds of old varieties of beans to grow and observe. Throughout the growing season, the participant is invited to document the development of his/her plants by noting their characteristics and uploading photos directly to the "INCREASE CSA" application. A simple and concrete way to contribute to scientific research, from home!
