Bean

Growing Tips

Beans prefer a well-drained soil of average fertility and a pH of 6.0 to 6.8. Because the seed is sensitive to cold temperatures, the soil should be at least 70°F. for snap beans and 75°F. for limas. A 3-year rotation is recommended to avoid many bean diseases. Most bean varieties germinate in 6-10 days under favorable conditions. Snap beans mature within 2 months from seeding, so successive plantings every third week can produce a constant supply all season.

Fresh Market Grower Tips:
Beans are a staple at farmers’ markets and at roadside businesses. When soil has reached an acceptable planting temperature, there is no reason not to have fresh beans to offer all season long. Grow both yellow and green beans to add color to vegetable displays. Keep them fresh looking all day long by misting them with cold water occasionally. Consider some of the new high-quality filet beans for sales, as they are sure to impress your customers.

Culture:
Beans prefer a well-drained soil of average fertility and a pH of 6.0 to 6.8. Because the seed is sensitive to cold temperatures, the soil should be at least 65-70° F. when planting. A three-year rotation is recommended to avoid many bean diseases. Most bean varieties germinate in 6-10 days under favorable conditions. Since bush beans mature within two months from seeding, successive plantings every 2 or 3 weeks can produce a constant supply all season. It’s a quick cash crop that keeps your customers coming back for more.

Days to Maturity are approximate from direct seeding in the field and intended for variety comparison only.

Average Seed Count:
Baby Limas 200 per packet; 1,600/lb.
Bush Beans and Pole Beans 200 per packet; 1,600/lb.
Large Limas and Favas 40-50 per packet; 300-500/lb.