Production agriculture efficiency and sustainability will improve with crop cultivars bred for optimum production within and across different cropping systems. We evaluated 16 dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cultivars from three market classes in seven cropping systems in 2003 and 2004. Soil samples (0-20 cm) were analyzed for nutrients from each cropping system. Water stress was monitored through out the growing season in two cropping systems. Seed yields, 100-seed weight, and days-to-maturity were recorded. Above ground whole plants at physiological maturity and seeds were analyzed by standard analytical methods for nutrient concentrations and uptakes determined. Significant seed yield and dry matter production differences occurred between cropping systems and cultivars, and the interaction was significant for seed yield. Continual bean cropping, drought, and soil nutrient deficiencies reduced yield and nutirent uptake. Seed yield was positively correlated with nutrient concentration and uptake in all cropping systems. Plant concentrations and uptakes of P, Zn, Cu, Fe, and Mn were significantly affected by cropping system and cultivars. The cropping system by cultivar interaction was significant for P, Zn, N and Cu concentrations. The relationships between yield stability of cultivars in different cropping systems, soil and plant nutrient concentrations, drought and their significance to breeding will be further discussed.