Legume crops, dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) and soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.), can form symbiotic relationships with nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Nitrogen (N) fertilizer may be necessary for optimal yields. Three experiments were conducted on dry bean and on soybean in North Dakota. Objectives of the research were to evaluate yield and growth differences between different N management strategies. Inoculant applied to dry bean increased nodulation in one environment. Nodule formation was highest in the Lariat pinto bean and lowest in Vista navy bean. Application of N increased yield at Park River in 2014. Applying N to dry bean may not be necessary if soil N reserves are adequate. N application to soybean aggravated iron deficiency chlorosis (IDC), but increased yield. When fertilizer cost was accounted for there were no differences between treatments. Application of N to leguminous crops is not recommended, but it may increase yield under certain conditions.