Bean
Bean is a vegetable in the Fabaceae family. It grows best in full sun with medium moisture, and is listed for USDA zones 2-13. Plants reach harvest about 42–122 days after planting and sit about 4 inches apart.
Varieties
44 from Seeds Now, High Mowing & True Leaf Market · sorted by days to maturity▸Contender42–58 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Start indoors; Super easy to grow
The Contender Bush Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is one of the best tasting green beans, and it can tolerate the heat. An early and prolific producer, pods can grow 6"-8" long, and are slightly curved with a distinct flavor. This stringless variety is great for canning, freezing, or eating fresh from the garden. Easy to grow Stringless variety Matures quickly—50 days Heat tolerant Shop all Bean Seeds Shop Good Companion Plants for Beans 📚 Grow Guide: Beans
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Provider42–58 days
5-6” pods
Resistance: HR: Bean Common Mosaic Virus; Powdery Mildew
The standard fresh market variety for green beans. Provider comes through every year with early, heavy yields of attractive, uniform beans. Plants are vigorous and productive with strong root systems, even under adverse conditions. Good resistance to mildew and virus. Purple seeds.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Top Notch Golden Wax45–61 days
Heirloom; Container; Vegetable; Annual
53 days to maturity. A productive bush snap bean producing straight, round, golden-yellow wax pods about 5-6 inches long with a tender, stringless texture and mild flavor. The compact plants need no staking and bear a concentrated crop, making them well suited to garden beds, raised beds, and containers. Pods are best harvested young as snap beans for fresh eating, canning, or freezing.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Antigua47–63 days
Suitable for mechanical harvest; 5” pods
Resistance: HR: Anthracnose; Bean Common Mosaic Virus · IR: Halo Blight
Impressive yields of beautiful dark green pods on widely adapted plants. The darkest green bush bean of any variety we saw in our trials. Very upright, 18” tall plants offer excellent disease resistance and form a plethora of uniform pods that are suitable for mechanical harvests. Developed for the processing industry to offer commercial yields of beans that are good for blanching. From our partners at Pure Line Seeds. White seeds. Beans Phaseolus vulgaris
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Blue Lake47–63 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Start indoors; Super easy to grow
Blue Lake bush beans are a classic variety prized for their tender, stringless pods and exceptional flavor. These compact plants produce abundant yields of 5-6 inch pods perfect for fresh eating, steaming, or freezing. Known for their reliability and disease resistance, Blue Lake beans thrive in warm soil and full sun, maturing in approximately 50-60 days. They're ideal for gardeners seeking consistent harvests without the space requirements of pole varieties. Direct sow seeds after the last frost date, spacing them 4-6 inches apart in well-draining soil. A favorite among home gardeners for over 70 years. Stringless pods Easy to grow Matures quickly—55 days Medium 5"-6" pods Shop all Bean Seeds Shop Good Companion Plants for Beans 📚 Grow Guide: Beans
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Borlotti47–63 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Start indoors; Super easy to grow
The Borlotti Bush Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is an old Italian heirloom, also known as the Cranberry Bean. With its vibrant crimson streaks, the beautiful pods are easy to spot in the garden. Can be eaten as a green bean, or dried and used like its relative the kidney bean. Easy to grow High in fiber Matures quickly—55 days Good as a dried bean Shop all Bean Seeds Shop Good Companion Plants for Beans 📚 Grow Guide: Beans
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Celine47–63 days
Magenta color; Refined and straight; 4.75-5.5” pods
Resistance: HR: Bean Common Mosaic Necrosis Virus (US1)
Vibrant, dark to light purple wax beans with contrasting yellow interior. Tasty and juicy beans with a strikingly bright, magenta color and wonderful tenderness. These are the first purple wax beans on the market. Plants are healthy producers of uniform beans on robust, bush habit plants. Incredible as a stand-alone bean variety or mixed with other colors for specialty appeal. Brighter and more of a brilliant purple than most other purple bean varieties and tender enough to be enjoyed raw. Developed by Dr. John Hart of EarthWork Seeds. Light tan seeds.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Compass47–63 days
Upright plant habit; Easy harvest; 5-6" pods
Resistance: HR: Anthracnose; Bean Common Mosaic Virus; Halo Blight
Perfectly uniform, straight beans on upright, vigorous plants. The vertical plant growth allows for easy harvest of multitudes of perfect, uniform beans. Beans are medium to dark green with excellent texture and flavor. A standout in our trials field for yields, uniformity and harvest ease. The best filet beans our trials team has found. From Holland-Select Seed Company. White seeds.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Dragon Langerie47–63 days
Versatile; 6-8” flat pods
Unique purple-streaked white pods, also known as Dragon’s Tongue. Popular for eating fresh as a snap bean with exceptional flavor and crispness – a clear winner in our taste tests. Streaks fade when cooked. Versatile variety also makes a great shelling bean or dry bean. Purple seeds. Limited availability in 2024
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Gold Rush Yellow Wax47–63 days
Concentrated harvest; Holds well; 4-5” pods
Resistance: HR: Bean Common Mosaic Virus; Curly Top Virus
Early variety with concentrated maturity for a faster harvest. Lemon-yellow pods with green tips are round, straight and tender. Fine flavor and crisp texture ideal for pickling or lacto-fermenting. Pods hang in clusters around the main stem, making them easy to pick. White seeds.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Jade47–63 days
Heat tolerant; 6-7” pods
Resistance: HR: Bean Common Mosaic Virus · IR: Bacterial Brown Spot; Curly Top Virus; Rust
Gourmet-quality long, slender, stringless green beans. Commercial yields of glossy, medium green beans for fresh market sales or the garden. Large, 18-22” tall plants produce yields comparable to Provider and Strike. Pale green seeds.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Mardi Gras Blend47–63 days
Matures evenly; 4-6” pods
Pre-mixed purple, yellow and green snap beans make an eye-catching custom blend. No more hand mixing after a bean harvest – our tri-color bean blend makes it easy and efficient to offer bags of colorful beans. Varieties selected for their excellent flavor and even rates of maturity. Plant successions and harvest these beautiful, festive beans all season. Includes gold, purple and green snap beans.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Red Tail47–63 days
Vigorous bush; 5.5-6” pods
Resistance: HR: Bean Common Mosaic Virus; Curly Top Virus · IR: Rust
Broadly adapted, prolific plants with exceptionally high yields of attractive, flavorful beans. The highest yielding bush bean in our trials program, plants are laden with 5.5-6” pods. Dark green, shiny beans are uniform and straight making for an efficient, reliable harvest. From our partners at EarthWork Seeds. White seeds. Limited availability in 2024
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Royal Burgundy47–63 days
Large plants; 5” pods
Gorgeous deep purple stringless pods with green interiors. Almost-black beans make a stunning display when mixed with yellow and green beans, especially raw in salads. Beans turn green when cooked. Widely adapted, grows well in cool conditions. Displayed highest resistance to white mold in our trials. Light brown seeds.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Strike47–63 days
Suitable for mechanical harvest; 5-6” pods
Resistance: HR: Bean Common Mosaic Virus
Strike it rich with heavy harvests ideal for processing or freezing. Stringless, smooth beans are medium green in color. Strike is known for its concentrated pod set; great for canning. Widely adapted, disease-resistant variety. White seeds.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Northeaster48–64 days
Very early; 7-8” flattened pods
Romano bean with buttery flavor and hearty texture. Northeaster is consistently one of the earliest pole beans in our trials and is well-suited to short seasons. Flattened, pale green pods on tall, vigorous vines. Quick to harvest, as beans are easy to distinguish from the foliage. Re-discovered by Rob Johnston of Johnny’s Selected Seeds. White seeds.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Blue Lake 27450–65 days
Heirloom; Container; Vegetable; Annual
Resistance: HR: BCMV · IR: NY15
50-65 Days to maturity. Phaseolus vulgaris. Blue Lake 247 Bean Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom snap bush bean. Suitable for growing in containers, garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Blue Lake 274 is the classic bean that comes to mind when you think of a green bean. It has been known in the canning industry for years because of its reliability, huge yields, disease resistance, and ability to bear all at once, making canning a much easier task. Blue Lake produces plump, tender, dark green pods that are about 5.5 inches long. The bush itself only grows about 16 inches, saving space in your garden but producing big, juicy yields. This is THE green bean for canning or freezing. Bush Blue Lake bean resists BCMV; tolerates NY15. ~87 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Forrester50–68 days
Kentucky Wonder-type; Vigorous bush; 5.5-6” pods
Resistance: IR: Rust; Halo Blight
Flat, medium green pods on 21” productive, bush-habit plants. Plants produce plentiful harvests of flat pods with rounded edges that are tender and smooth. Fruit set occurs high, making for easy harvesting. This flat bean is known as a Kentucky Wonder-type, which originally came out as a pole bean and was later developed into a bush bean. The pod is not as wide as the Roma II, but it is thicker and juicier. White seeds. From our partners at Pure Line Seeds. Forrester Maxibel Haricot Vert Compass Dragon Langerie
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Harvester50–55 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Start indoors; Super easy to grow
The Harvester Bush Bean grows high off the ground for easy picking. It has excellent flavor from pods that can grow up to 6" long. And you can be enjoying the juicy crunchiness in only 55 days. What’s not to like about this easy string bean? Easy to grow High yielding Easy to harvest Long, flavorful pods
Growing notes: Botanical name: Phaseolus vulgaris|Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep|Spacing between plants: 4" apart|Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart|Days to germinate (sprout): 5-10 days|Germination soil temps: 70F-85F|Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH|Sun needs: Full sun|Frost hardy: No|Planting season: Spring, summer, fall|# of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 4 plants per sq. ft|Days to maturity: 50-55 days|Good companion plants: Cucumber, Pea, Rosemary, Thyme, Tomato|Shop more:
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Kentucky Blue50–75 days
Heirloom; AAS Winner; Vegetable; Annual
Resistance: HR: Bean Common Mosaic Virus (Race 1); Rust
50-75 Days to maturity. Phaseolus vulgaris. Kentucky Blue Bean Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, high-yielding, AAS Winner, drought and heat tolerant, high-yielding, pole, snap string bean. Suitable for growing in containers, garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Resistant to Bean Common Mosaic Virus (race 1) and Rust. Kentucky Blue Pole Beans are a remarkable variety that combines the best traits of the classic 'Kentucky Wonder' and 'Blue Lake' pole beans. This hybridization results in a bean that is not only high-yielding but also offers exceptional flavor and tenderness. Yet, the plants are open-pollinated! The vines can reach impressive heights of 6 to 8 feet, requiring sturdy support structures like trellises or poles. The beans are long, slender, and deep green, typically reaching 6 to 7 inches. They are stringless and have a sweet, tender flavor, perfect for fresh eating, canning, or freezing. ~89 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Landreth50–55 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Start indoors; Super easy to grow
The Landreth Bush Bean is a classic green bean—lovely medium color, tender 5"-6" stringless pods, and excellent flavor. It’s also an heirloom that has been growing in gardens since the late 1800s. A reliable and heavy producer, this bean is more heat tolerant than other varieties. Tends to grow tall and wide, so give it a little more garden space. Easy to grow High yields Heat tolerant Stringless variety
Growing notes: Botanical name: Phaseolus vulgaris|Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep|Spacing between plants: 4"-6" apart|Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart|Days to germinate (sprout): 5-10 days|Germination soil temps: 70F-85F|Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH|Sun needs: Full sun|Frost hardy: No|Planting season: Spring, summer, fall|# of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 2-4 plants per sq. ft|Days to maturity: 50-55 days
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Qing Bian50–55 days
Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual
50-55 Days to maturity. Phaseolus vulgaris. Qing Bian Pole Bean Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, drought tolerant, pole, snap, romano, Asian bean. Suitable for growing in containers, garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Qing Bian is a container-friendly, early-maturing Romano bean type with a bountiful harvest. The pods are flat, long, and grow 10-12 inches long and 1-inch wide with a nice bright green color. Suitable for many locations, the vigorous plants have stringless and tender beans. These heirloom seeds can be dated back to the 1800s and have been perpetuated today because of their flavorful pods. Qing Bian’s unique flavor, resilience, and high yield make it desirable for gardeners who appreciate Asian specialty vegetables. ~59 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Slenderette50–55 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Start indoors; Super easy to grow
The Slenderette Bush Bean is a sleek French-type green bean. A vigorous grower that produces high yields of slim 5" long stringless pods on a compact plant. This sweet, juicy, tender, crunchy bean would taste great in a European thin/thick bean salad served alongside wider Roma II Italian beans. Easy to grow Stringless variety Sweet, juicy, tender, and crunchy High yields
Growing notes: Botanical name: Phaseolus vulgaris|Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep|Spacing between plants: 4" apart|Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart|Days to germinate (sprout): 5-10 days|Germination soil temps: 70F-85F|Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH|Sun needs: Full sun|Frost hardy: No|Planting season: Spring, summer, fall|# of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 4 plants per sq. ft|Days to maturity: 50-55 days
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Tendergreen50–55 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Start indoors; Super easy to grow
The Tendergreen Bush Bean is a heavy yielder and heat-tolerant, producing longer than other beans. It grows long 6"-7" stringless pods, but pick them at 5" for best flavor and tenderness. Be sure to shell one of the pods to see the purple-brown beans inside. Easy to grow High yields Heat tolerant Stringless variety
Growing notes: Botanical name: Phaseolus vulgaris|Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep|Spacing between plants: 4" apart|Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart|Days to germinate (sprout): 5-10 days|Germination soil temps: 70F-85F|Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH|Sun needs: Full sun|Frost hardy: No|Planting season: Spring, summer, fall|# of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 4 plants per sq. ft|Days to maturity: 50-55 days
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Top Crop50–55 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Start indoors; Super easy to grow
The Top Crop Bush Bean lives up to its name. This All-American Selections (AAS) winner produces high yields high up on a tall plant for easy harvesting. The 6"-7" pods are smooth, round, straight, and stringless, and they mature early in about 50 days. Also add heat tolerant to the list. Easy to grow Easy to harvest Heat tolerant Matures early—50 days
Growing notes: Botanical name: Phaseolus vulgaris|Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep|Spacing between plants: 4" apart|Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart|Days to germinate (sprout): 5-10 days|Germination soil temps: 70F-85F|Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH|Sun needs: Full sun|Frost hardy: No|Planting season: Spring, summer, fall|# of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 4 plants per sq. ft|Days to maturity: 50-55 days
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Seychelles51–69 days
AAS winner; Stringless; 5-6” pods
Resistance: IR: Anthracnose; Bean Common Mosaic Virus
A prolific producer of perfect-quality, stringless pods with an archipelago of tender, small seeds inside each. Seychelles is an All-America Selections winner with plenty to offer pole bean-lovers: vigorous plants produce dark green, round pods that drop in clusters of six on a loose hanging truss for an easy and continuous harvest. Great flavor and all-around high performance won our hearts. Vines will reach 5’ tall and require initial training to climb a trellis. From our partners at Pure Line Seeds. White seeds.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Blue Coco55–75 days
Tolerant of heat, cold and drought; 6-7” pods
Vigorous, high-yielding dark purple snap beans. Beautiful plants with violet flowers and dark green leaves with contrasting purple undersides and stems. Plants are well adapted and produce an abundance of sweet, tender beans in a variety of conditions. French heirloom dating back to the 18th century. Brown seeds.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Blue Lake FM1K55–75 days
Heirloom / Open Pollinated; Vegetable; Annual; Non-GMO
Resistance: HR: Bean Common Mosaic Virus (Race 1, 15)
65 Days to maturity. Phaseolus vulgaris . Blue Lake Pole FM1K Bean Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, high-yielding, drought-tolerant, pole, snap bean. Suitable for growing in containers, garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Resistant to Bean Common Mosaic Virus (race 1, 15). Blue Lake FM1K is known for its high yield and for producing tender, flavorful green pods that are perfect for fresh eating, canning, or freezing. The plants are vigorous climbers and grow well on trellises, maximizing vertical space in the garden. If you love Kentucky Wonder Bush Beans and want an equally high-yielding pole version, Blue Lake is the way to go! The oval pods produced are crisp and tender, growing up to 6" long. They grow quickly and are easy to grow, making them an excellent addition to the home garden. ~110 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Kentucky Wonder55–75 days
Snap or dry bean; 7-9” pods
Unbeatable productivity, consistency and flavor. Introduced in Kentucky just prior to the Civil War, this classic variety has proven its excellence over many generations. Pods are stringless, solid and meaty with great flavor. Use fresh for snap beans or dry on vines for an excellent soup bean. Brown seeds. Unavailable in 2024
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Maxibel Haricot Vert55–75 days
Large plants; Tender 6-8” pods
Resistance: HR: Anthracnose; Bean Common Mosaic Virus
Impeccable French filet bean for gourmet markets. Known for its long, slender, medium green pods with a delicate tender texture. Heavy producer of 6-8” beans on good-sized plants. Maxibel will keep you loaded with fresh beans; pick frequently for optimal tenderness and yields. Some plants have runners. Speckled brown seeds.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Rattlesnake55–75 days
8” long pods
Exceptional heirloom flavor fresh, shelled or dry. Picked fresh, beans are flattened and dark green with unusual purple streaks that fade when cooked. Shelled beans are beige, with rattlesnake streaks when fully dry. Signature addition for roadside stands and farmers markets. Streaked seeds.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Tongue of Fire55–90 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Start indoors; Super easy to grow
Not only does the Tongue of Fire Bush Bean have one of the best names for a vegetable, this Italian heirloom bean produces beautiful, flavorful wide cranberry streaked pods. Originally collected in Tierra del Fuego on the tip of South America, it produces 6"-7" long pods on a compact plant. Eat it young as a green bean, shell it when it matures, or let it dry and cook the large beans as you would kidney beans. Easy to grow High yielding Beautiful and delicious 6"-7" long pods
Growing notes: Botanical name: Phaseolus vulgaris|Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep|Spacing between plants: 4" apart|Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart|Days to germinate (sprout): 5-10 days|Germination soil temps: 70F-85F|Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH|Sun needs: Full sun|Frost hardy: No|Planting season: Spring, summer, fall|# of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 4 plants per sq. ft|Days to maturity: 55-90 days
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Roma II58–65 days
The Roma II Bush Bean is an Italian snap bean with flat stringless pods. A tender, meaty bean that retains its fresh flavor when cooked or canned, and is hearty enough to throw on the grill. This high yielder grows tall, making it easy to harvest lots of wide 5"-6" pods. Easy to grow Tender and flavorful Stringless variety High yields
Growing notes: Botanical name: Phaseolus vulgaris|Depth to plant seeds: 1.25" deep|Spacing between plants: 5-6" apart|Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart|Days to germinate (sprout): 5-10 days|Germination soil temps: 70F-85F|Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH|Sun needs: Full sun|Frost hardy: No|Planting season: Spring, summer, fall|# of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 4 plants per sq. ft|Days to maturity: 58-65 days
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Taylor Dwarf60–75 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Start indoors; Super easy to grow
Taylor Dwarf is a compact bush bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) grown for shell beans with creamy seeds marked in burgundy. Direct-sow after the soil has warmed and frost danger has passed. Bush plants need full sun, even moisture during flowering and pod set, and no trellis.
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Golden Wax65–75 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Start indoors; Super easy to grow
The Golden Wax Bush Bean is a beautiful buttery treat in the garden. With its long, straight yellow pods, this heavy producing stringless bean is easy to cook or can. Grow these alongside Borlotti Bush Beans and Royal Burgundy Bush Beans for an artistic change from the usual green beans. Easy to grow Stringless variety Produces long 5"-7" pods Buttery wax bean flavor
Growing notes: Botanical name: Phaseolus vulgaris|Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep|Spacing between plants: 4"-6" apart|Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart|Days to germinate (sprout): 10-14 days|Germination soil temps: 70F-85F|Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH|Sun needs: Full sun|Frost hardy: No|Planting season: Spring, summer, fall|# of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 4 plants per sq. ft|Days to maturity: 65-75 days|Good companion plants: Cucumber, Pea, Rosemary, Thyme, Tomato|Shop more:
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Romano65–80 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Start indoors; Super easy to grow
The Romano Pole Bean is a traditional Italian heirloom bean enjoyed by generations of gardeners. The vining plant produces high yields of flat, wide, stringless 6" pods that taste best when harvested young. Just a great all-around green bean. Easy to grow Stringless variety Harvest young for best flavor Vining plant requires staking
Growing notes: Botanical name: Phaseolus vulgaris|Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep|Spacing between plants: 5" apart|Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart|Days to germinate (sprout): 8-14 days|Germination soil temps: 70F-85F|Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH|Sun needs: Full sun|Frost hardy: No|Planting season: Spring, summer, fall|# of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 4 plants per sq. ft|Days to maturity: 65-80 days
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Purple Podded70–75 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Start indoors; Super easy to grow
The Purple Podded Pole Bean produces a profuse plurality of purely purple pods. View this variety vegetate vigorous verdant vines with violet developments. Stringless shells surround savory seeds. Easy to grow High yielding Long pods up to 7" Easy to harvest
Growing notes: Botanical name: Phaseolus vulgaris|Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep|Spacing between plants: 5" apart|Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart|Days to germinate (sprout): 8-14 days|Germination soil temps: 70F-85F|Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH|Sun needs: Full sun|Frost hardy: No|Planting season: Spring, summer|# of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 4 plants per sq. ft|Days to maturity: 70-75 days
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Light Red Kidney72–98 days
Widely adapted; Bush habit
Exceptional culinary quality with silky texture and thin skin. Mild flavor and drier texture excellent for chili, bean salads, baked and in soups. Medium-sized plants are sturdy and widely adapted, producing well even in cool, wet climates like the Northeast.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Calypso76–104 days
Bush habit
Widely adapted, delicious bean for baking and soups. Dependable and early yields of 4–5 beans per pod on sturdy plants. Also known as Orca or Yin Yang for its distinctive black and white pattern that is retained in cooking. Mild flavor and creamy, rich texture. Beans double in size when cooked.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Eclipse76–104 days
White mold tolerant; High yielding; Bush habit
Resistance: HR: Bean Common Mosaic Virus · IR: Anthracnose; Rust
Eclipses other black beans. An earlier and higher yielding version of the Black Turtle bean we all love. Eclipse has impressed nearly everyone by having all the flavor and color of the traditional Black Turtle but returning many more pounds of beans and maturing nearly a week earlier. Eclipse also resists rust, anthracnose, BCMV and shows tolerance to white mold. Upright plants are highly uniform, don’t lodge and do a synchronous dry down. Released in 2004 by the North Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station. A portion of the sales of this variety is paid to the breeder.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Jacob’s Cattle76–104 days
Excellent cooking bean; Bush habit
Incredible red and white speckled heirloom. Full-flavored bean that holds its shape under long cooking and possesses a rich aroma. Legend has it that it was a gift from Maine’s Passamaquoddy Native Americans to Joseph Clark, the first non-native born in Lubec, Maine.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Silver Cloud Cannellini81–109 days
Bush habit; Rust tolerant
Resistance: HR: Curly Top Virus · IR: Bean Common Mosaic Virus
Improved white bean with excellent culinary qualities. Shelling and cooking beans prized for their smooth, meaty texture and dense, nutty flavor. Ideal for minestrone; also known as fagioli or white kidney. Bred by Washington State University for higher yields, greater disease resistance and more upright habit than the famous heirloom.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Pinto90–95 days
Heirloom; Container; Vegetable; Annual
90-95 Days to maturity. Phaseolus vulgaris. Pinto Bean Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, bush, shelling bean. Suitable for growing in containers, garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Pinto Beans are most notably used in Mexican Cuisine. These hard, brown-speckled beans make for great chili and refried beans. They are easy to grow and satisfy the belly. The pinto bean is most prominent in Mexican cuisine and is often used for refried beans. They can tolerate being dried out while growing, making them an easy bean to grow. Pinto beans have a shelf life of five years and are a great option for those who enjoy edible gardening. ~75 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Quincy Pinto90–122 days
Large, semi-bush plants
Resistance: HR: Bean Common Mosaic Necrosis Virus; Bean Common Mosaic Virus · IR: Curly Top Virus
Very high yielding pinto ideal for slow-cooking and canning. Large, medium- to late- maturing beans with delicious, creamy flavor. The first pinto variety with genetic resistance to BCMV and CTV, bred in collaboration with Washington State University. Susceptible to Rust. Blue Coco Eclipse BEANS Silver Cloud Cannellini Quincy Pinto Jacob’s Cattle Calypso Kentucky Wonder Northeaster Seychelles Light Red Kidney Rattlesnake
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Beans are tender annuals that prefer full sun, average fertility and well-drained soils. Bush varieties do not require support, but pole varieties will require varying amounts. Direct seed after all danger of frost has passed. Inoculant may be used to increase yields. See page 3 for our available inoculants. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and may rot at soil temperatures below 55°F. Germination is apparent within 7-10 days. Snap beans can be sown through the summer every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest all season. Store unwashed snap beans at 40°F and 90% humidity for 7-10 days; can or freeze for long term storage. Dry beans should be harvested when pods are at least 70% brown and threshed when pods are dry enough to break easily. Dry the threshed beans to approximately 10-15% moisture before storage or allow to continue drying in breathable bags.
View on High Mowing ↗
Plant spacing
In a square-foot bed, space bean about 4 in apart — that fits 9 plants in each 1-foot square (3×3). Wider rows or containers space the same.
Plan your bean planting
Add bean to a free GardenDraft plan and get sow, transplant, and harvest dates computed for your ZIP code — with a drag-and-drop bed layout and reminders when it’s time to plant.
Start your free plan →At a glance
Storing & preserving
Best used right away — quality drops fast. Refrigerate fresh pods and use within a few days.
- Freeze: Blanch briefly, cool, then freeze — keeps color and texture.
- Dry: Let shell types dry fully on the plant, then store as dried beans.
General home-preservation guidance — for tested processing times and safety, follow the National Center for Home Food Preservation.
Growing timeline
Companion planting — with cited sources
From US/Canada cooperative-extension publications and peer-reviewed studies. Evidence-tier dots show how strongly each recommendation is backed: ●●● peer-reviewed mechanism · ●● extension consensus · ● traditional knowledge with a plausible mechanism.
Pairs well with (21)
- CornEvidence tier A: Peer-reviewed studies in US/Canada production conditions with a clear mechanismn-fixation, structural-support
Climbing common bean is the bean component of the classic Three Sisters polyculture. It nodulates with Rhizobium tropici and R. leguminosarum, fixes atmospheric N, and uses corn stalks for vertical support. Most of the fixed N becomes available to companion crops only after bean residue decomposition, so corn typically still needs supplemental fertility in the first season. Documented across Cornell, Iowa State, West Virginia, and University of Arkansas extension publications.
Timing: Direct seed pole bean 2-3 weeks after corn reaches 6-12 inches.
- Black WalnutEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsjuglone-tolerant
Snap bean and lima bean are juglone-tolerant; listed in extension tables as 'safe under walnut'.
Source: Penn State Extension, S8
- Common EggplantEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsn-fixation, pest-deter
Eggplant interplanted with bush bean is a long-standing extension recommendation. Beans contribute residual N and several studies have reported reduced Colorado potato beetle pressure on eggplant in bean polycultures, likely through visual/chemical disruption of host-finding behavior.
Source: S1, University of Maryland Extension
- Common PotatoEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsn-fixation, pest-deter
Bush bean interplanted with potato is a long-standing recommendation in Cornell, Penn State, and UMass extension. Bean contributes residual N from nodule turnover and several trials have reported reduced Colorado potato beetle pressure in potato-bean polycultures, attributed to visual and olfactory disruption of host-finding.
Source: S1, Penn State Extension, UMass Center for Agriculture
- Crookneck PumpkinEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsn-fixation
Pole bean nodulation contributes nitrogen via Rhizobium, primarily benefiting subsequent crops after residue breakdown. Same-season N benefit in Three Sisters is modest; supplemental side-dressing of corn is recommended.
- CushawEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsn-fixation
Climbing bean contributes nitrogen to the Three Sisters system; most of the fixed N becomes available to corn and squash only after bean residue decomposition, so the same-season benefit to squash is modest but the rotational benefit is well documented.
- French MarigoldEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionspest-deter
Tagetes patula suppresses Meloidogyne nematodes through alpha-terthienyl in roots. Phaseolus vulgaris is moderately susceptible to root-knot nematode, especially in sandy soils.
Timing: Prior-season marigold cover is more effective than concurrent interplant.
Region: Most useful in zones 7+ with established Meloidogyne populations.
Source: UC IPM
- Summer SquashEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsn-fixation, weed-suppression
Bush bean interplantings with summer squash form a workable two-species polyculture: bean fixes N and squash provides living mulch. Documented in Cornell, MSU, and Penn State home-garden guides.
Source: S1, S5, Penn State Extension
- Sweet PotatoEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsn-fixation, weed-suppression
Bush beans interplanted between sweet potato hills supply biological N and are harvested before the sweet potato vines fully cover the bed. Documented in NC State and UGA sweet potato extension publications.
Timing: Plant bush beans 2-3 weeks before sweet potato slips so the bean harvest finishes as sweet potato vines close the canopy.
Region: Southeast US.
Source: S11, NC State Extension
- Winter SquashEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsn-fixation
Pole bean fixes nitrogen via Rhizobium symbiosis; benefit to corn and squash is mostly post-season via residue breakdown, but the bean canopy contributes to weed suppression in the early Three Sisters season.
- Common CabbageEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationn-fixation
Beans provide modest in-place nitrogen contribution useful for heavy-feeding brassicas; extension home-garden guides recommend bush bean as a brassica neighbor for this reason. Effect on actual yield is modest in a single season.
Source: University of Maryland Extension
- Common CucumberEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationn-fixation
Bush bean and cucumber polycultures are reported as workable in extension home-garden guides; bean provides modest in-season N and ground cover. Effect size is small.
Source: S7, University of Maryland Extension
- Common RosemaryEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationpest-deter
Rosemary is sometimes recommended to deter Mexican bean beetle; field replication is limited but the practice appears in regional extension home-garden guides.
Source: University of Maryland Extension
- Common TomatoEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationn-fixation
Bush bean interplanting between tomato plants contributes modest residual N from nodule turnover and post-season residue. Effect on same-season tomato yield is small; primarily helps the following crop.
Source: University of Maryland Extension
- EpazoteEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationpest-deter, flavor-folklore
Traditional Mesoamerican bean companion — epazote's ascaridole-rich oils are claimed to deter weevils and to reduce flatulence-causing oligosaccharides during cooking. Pest-deterrent evidence in the field is limited; the pairing is more cultural than empirical.
Timing: Manage flowering to limit reseeding.
Region: Tropical to warm-temperate; self-sows aggressively in zones 7+.
Source: S11
- MuskmelonEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationn-fixation
Bush bean intercrop contributes modest residual N and ground cover during melon establishment. Documented in several extension home-garden guides as a workable polyculture, with the caveat that beans must not over-shade young melon vines.
Source: University of Maryland Extension
- StrawberryEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationn-fixation
Bush beans are listed as a strawberry companion in extension home-garden guides; the plausible mechanism is modest nitrogen contribution from the legume rhizobia and minimal root competition because beans are short-season and shallow-rooted.
Source: S1
- Summer SavoryEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationpest-deter, flavor-folklore
Summer savory is the traditional 'bean herb' of European and North American kitchen gardens; carvacrol-rich oils plausibly deter bean beetles, and the herb is harvested at the same time as snap beans. Folklore claims of flavor improvement are not empirically demonstrated.
Timing: Direct-seed alongside bush beans at last frost.
Source: Penn State Extension, University of Maryland Extension
- Sweet Bell PepperEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationn-fixation
Bush beans interplanted around peppers contribute modest residual nitrogen as nodules and residues break down, and the relatively short bean canopy does not over-shade pepper. Benefit is primarily realized later in the season or to the following crop.
Source: University of Maryland Extension
- Wax GourdEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationn-fixation
As a vining cucurbit, wax gourd benefits from the modest nitrogen contribution of an adjacent legume during the season, by analogy with documented bean-squash intercrops. Direct extension evidence specific to Benincasa is limited; the recommendation follows general cucurbit-legume intercropping practice.
Region: Most grown in warmer US zones and Asian specialty production.
Source: S1
- Winter SavoryEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationpest-deter
Winter savory shares carvacrol/thymol-rich volatiles with summer savory; perennial habit makes it a useful bed-edge companion to pole beans. Same evidence tier as summer savory.
Region: Hardy zones 5-9.
Source: University of Maryland Extension
Avoid planting near (10)
- Adzuki BeanEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsdisease-host
Adzuki and common bean share root rot pathogens (Fusarium, Rhizoctonia) and bean common mosaic virus strains. Avoid sequential same-bed planting.
Source: University of Guelph / OMAFRA
- ChickpeaEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsdisease-host
Successive legume cropping (chickpea followed by dry bean or vice versa) builds populations of shared root rot pathogens (Fusarium, Pythium, Rhizoctonia, Aphanomyces) and is discouraged in extension rotation guidance.
Timing: Minimum 3 years between legume crops in the same bed.
Source: S22
- Common SunflowerEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsallelopathy-negative
Helianthus annuus produces allelopathic terpenes (chlorogenic and isochlorogenic acids, sesquiterpene lactones) released by roots and decomposing residues that inhibit germination and growth of bean, potato, and several small-seeded vegetables. Documented in peer-reviewed allelopathy literature and Northern Plains extension trials.
Timing: Avoid direct seeding small-seeded crops within 1 m of sunflower row, and into ground freshly cleared of sunflower residue.
Source: S22, Putnam, 1988
- CowpeaEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsdisease-host
Cowpea and common bean share several mosaic viruses and root rot pathogens. Minimum 3-year gap between cowpea and Phaseolus crops in the same bed.
Source: S11
- Jerusalem ArtichokeEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsallelopathy-negative, nutrient-competition
Helianthus tuberosus is highly competitive, spreads aggressively from tubers, and shares the allelopathic terpene chemistry of H. annuus. Extension sources recommend a dedicated bed or barrier away from annual vegetables.
- LentilEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsdisease-host
Successive grain-legume cropping (lentil following bean or chickpea) builds up Aphanomyces, Fusarium and Sclerotinia inoculum. Extension recommends ≥3 years between pulse crops.
Source: S22, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
- Mung BeanEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsdisease-host
Shares root rot complex and bean common mosaic virus strains with common bean; minimum 3-year gap between Vigna and Phaseolus pulses in same field.
Source: S22
- Soy BeanEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsdisease-host
Common bean and soybean share Sclerotinia (white mold), Fusarium and Rhizoctonia root rots, and several mosaic viruses. Extension rotation guidance advises ≥3 year gaps between Phaseolus and Glycine in the same field.
Source: S8, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
- Common AmaranthEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationnutrient-competition
Amaranthus species are aggressive C4 nutrient scavengers and several (A. retroflexus, A. palmeri) are listed as economically damaging weeds in soybean. Cultivated grain amaranth can self-sow and become weedy near low legumes.
Source: Penn State Extension, S8
- Sweet FennelEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationallelopathy-negative
Fennel exudates suppress bean germination and early growth in documented assays. Extension recommendation: keep fennel in an isolated bed.
Source: University of Maryland Extension
Trap crops for this plant (2)
- Common NasturtiumEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionstrap-crop
Nasturtium acts as a strong aphid (especially black bean aphid, Aphis fabae) trap. Documented in multiple Northeast extension publications.
- Dwarf NasturtiumEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionstrap-crop
Same aphid trap-crop role as T. majus.
Sources cited
- S1
- Cornell University Cooperative Extension — vegetable production guides
- S11
- University of Georgia Cooperative Extension
- S12
- NC State Extension
- S15
- UMass Center for Agriculture (UMass Extension)
- S22
- University of Saskatchewan / Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture
- S23
- University of Guelph / OMAFRA (Ontario)
- S25
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
- S3
- UC IPM (University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources)
- S33
- Putnam, 1988 — cereal rye allelopathy review
- S5
- Michigan State University Extension
- S6
- Penn State Extension
- S7
- University of Minnesota Extension
- S8
- Iowa State University Extension and Outreach
- S9
- University of Maryland Extension — Home & Garden Info Center
Care & troubleshooting— extension-sourced, with citations
When to feed, prune & water
Attract beneficial insects and protect pollinators
Protection- Routine carePlant insectary flowers and tolerate light pestsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Grow a diversity of flowering plants (including small-flowered umbels and asters) to feed predators and parasitoids, and tolerate low pest numbers so natural enemies have prey to stick around.
- Routine careNever spray open bloomsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Avoid insecticides on flowering plants and apply any needed sprays in the evening when pollinators aren't active, and favor selective products over broad-spectrum ones to spare bees and beneficials.
Care for legumes (skip the nitrogen)
Feeding- Routine careWater at flowering/podding; don't over-feed nitrogen· every 4 days · ~5 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Beans fix their own nitrogen, so extra nitrogen grows leaves not pods. Focus on steady water once they flower and start setting pods.
Mulch to suppress weeds and retain moisture
Mulch- Routine careApply organic mulch around plantsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Spread a few inches of straw, shredded leaves, or compost around established plants (keeping it off stems) to hold soil moisture, suppress weeds, and moderate soil temperature; wait until soil has warmed for heat-loving crops.
Plan crop rotation
Rotation- Routine careRotate plant families between bedsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Avoid planting the same family in the same bed in consecutive years (aim for a 3+ year gap), grouping crops by family so soilborne diseases and pests that build up don't carry over to the next susceptible crop.
- Routine careSequence for soil healthmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Follow heavy feeders like tomatoes and brassicas with legumes or a cover crop to support soil fertility and structure, and keep simple notes each year so you can track where each family grew.
Protect the garden from deer
Protection- Routine careFence the gardenstrong evidence — extension confidence
A fence about 8 feet tall and tight to the ground is the most reliable barrier; an outward-angled or double fence, or monofilament line strung at 30 to 36 inches, can also deter deer on smaller beds.
- Routine careRotate repellents as a supplement· every 2 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Where fencing isn't feasible, apply odor/taste repellents and alternate formulations, reapplying every couple of weeks and after rain; combining repellents with fencing works best.
Protect the garden from rabbits and voles
Protection- Routine careFence out rabbitsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Surround beds with 1-inch mesh chicken wire at least 2 feet tall with the bottom buried or staked down a few inches so rabbits can't push under it.
- Routine careReduce vole habitat and guard stemsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Keep grass and mulch pulled back from plant bases and crowns to remove vole cover, mow surrounding vegetation, and use hardware-cloth guards around vulnerable woody stems before winter.
Water deeply at fruiting
Watering- Routine careProvide steady deep watering during fruiting· every 3 daysstrong evidence — extension confidence
Once plants begin flowering and setting fruit, supply about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week in deep soakings rather than light sprinkles, ideally at the base; even moisture reduces cracking, blossom-end rot, and bitter or misshapen fruit.
Clean up debris and sanitize at season end
SanitationUnusual this time of year.
- Routine careRemove spent plants and fallen debrisstrong evidence — extension confidence
Pull and clear old plants, dropped fruit, and leaf litter at season end, since many pests and diseases overwinter in this debris; dispose of diseased material rather than composting it.
- Routine careClean tools, stakes, and cagesmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Wash and sanitize stakes, cages, and tools that touched diseased plants before storing or reusing them to avoid carrying pathogens into next season.
Succession-sow quick crops
CareUnusual this time of year.
- Routine careSow small batches on a schedule· every 2 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence
Plant short rows of fast crops like radishes, bush beans, and lettuce every two to three weeks rather than all at once, so you get a steady harvest and one bad weather spell won't ruin the whole planting.
Trellis vining crops
SupportUnusual this time of year.
- Routine careInstall supports at planting timestrong evidence — extension confidence
Set up the trellis, netting, or teepee when you sow or transplant so roots aren't disturbed later; pole beans and tall peas need a sturdy 6-8 foot structure, while trellised cucumbers do best with smaller-fruited varieties.
- Routine careGuide young vines onto the support· every 1 wkmoderate evidence — extension confidence
As shoots run, gently steer them onto the trellis and loosely tie any that don't grab on; keeping vines and fruit off the ground improves airflow and yields cleaner produce.
Something looks wrong?
Describe what you see on your beanand we'll rank the likely causes — most likely first, least-invasive fix first.
Anthracnose (Beans)
Diseasesevere- CulturalUse certified clean seed and rotatestrong evidence — extension confidence
Plant certified anthracnose-free seed and rotate at least 2 years away from beans, since the fungus is seedborne and survives in debris; do not save seed from infected plants.
- CulturalAvoid working wet plants and remove debrisstrong evidence — extension confidence
Stay out of the bean patch when foliage is wet and remove or bury crop debris after harvest, since spores spread by water and on hands and tools.
- ChemicalApply protectant fungicide in cool wet seasons· every 1 wkmoderate evidence — extension confidence
In cool, wet conditions that favor disease, apply a protectant fungicide preventively per the label.
Phytophthora blight (root and crown rot)
Diseasesevere- CulturalRemove affected plants at first sign (manage, not cure)strong evidence — extension confidence
Infected plants can't be saved; promptly pull and destroy them at the start of an outbreak to slow spread, and avoid working in beds when wet.
- CulturalImprove drainage and avoid waterloggingstrong evidence — extension confidence
Plant on raised beds, never let beds stay saturated, and water with drip rather than flooding, since this water mold thrives in standing water and saturated soil.
- CulturalRotate and choose tolerant varietiesmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Rotate out of peppers, cucurbits, and tomatoes for at least three years where the disease has occurred, and select tolerant or resistant varieties when available.
Root Rot Complex (Beans/Peas)
Diseasesevere- CulturalPlant into warm, well-drained soil and avoid compactionstrong evidence — extension confidence
Plant in warm, well-drained soil, relieve compaction, and avoid overwatering, since Pythium, Rhizoctonia, Fusarium, and Aphanomyces all thrive in cool, wet, compacted conditions. Once roots rot there is no cure.
- CulturalUse long rotationsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Rotate several years away from beans and peas (longer where Aphanomyces is present, since its spores persist 10+ years) and avoid fields with a root-rot history.
- ChemicalUse fungicide seed treatmentmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Plant fungicide-treated seed, which is effective against Pythium and Rhizoctonia at establishment, per the label; note seed treatments do not control Aphanomyces.
Root-knot nematodes
Nematodesevere- CulturalConfirm with a soil test, then rotate (manage, not cure)strong evidence — extension confidence
Root-knot nematodes can't be eradicated from garden soil, so confirm via a county Extension nematode assay and rotate beds to non-hosts or resistant varieties (look for VFN-type resistance in tomato).
- CulturalPlant suppressive cover/rotation cropsmoderate evidence — extension confidence
A solid planting of French marigolds grown 2+ months and turned under, or cover crops such as sorghum-sudangrass or cowpea, can lower populations between susceptible crops.
- CulturalSanitation and organic mattermoderate evidence — extension confidence
Avoid moving infested soil on tools or transplants, build soil organic matter to support beneficial organisms, and keep plants well watered to help them tolerate root damage.
Southern blight
Diseasesevere- CulturalRemove infected plants and surrounding soil (manage, not cure)strong evidence — extension confidence
Once a plant collapses it can't be cured; dig out the plant plus the top few inches of nearby soil containing sclerotia and dispose of it, avoiding spread on tools.
- CulturalBury residue and rotatemoderate evidence — extension confidence
Deep-turn soil to bury sclerotia, remove crop debris at season end, and rotate susceptible solanaceous and legume crops with grasses for several seasons.
- CulturalAdjust soil pH and plant earlymoderate evidence — extension confidence
Maintain soil pH at the level recommended for the crop, since the disease is worse in low-pH soils, and time plantings so harvest begins before peak summer heat favors the fungus.
White mold (Sclerotinia stem rot)
Diseasesevere- CulturalRemove infected plants (manage, not cure)strong evidence — extension confidence
There's no cure for an infected plant; cut out and bag affected plants including the black sclerotia, and don't compost them, since sclerotia survive years in soil.
- CulturalOpen the canopy and rotatestrong evidence — extension confidence
Space plants widely, control weeds, orient rows to prevailing wind, and avoid overhead watering at bloom to dry the canopy; rotate to non-host crops (corn or other grasses) for several years.
- CulturalWater at the base, not overheadmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Use drip or soaker irrigation to keep foliage and the soil surface drier, which discourages the sclerotia germination and mycelial growth that drive white mold.
Bean bacterial blight
Diseasemoderate- CulturalUse clean seed and keep foliage drystrong evidence — extension confidence
Start with fresh certified seed, avoid overhead watering, and never work among wet bean plants; remove infected debris and don't replant beans in that spot for two to three years.
- OrganicApply a labeled copper if needed· every 10 days · ~4 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Where blight appears early, a labeled copper applied per the label about every ten days can slow spread, but copper alone won't fully control it.
Bean Common Mosaic (Virus)
Virusmoderate- CulturalPlant certified resistant seedstrong evidence — extension confidence
Plant certified virus-free seed of resistant varieties, the most effective control, since the virus is highly seed-transmitted and there is no cure for infected plants.
- CulturalRogue infected plantsmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Remove and destroy symptomatic plants promptly to reduce a source for aphid spread; note that spraying aphids rarely prevents this virus.
Bean rust
Diseasemoderate- CulturalKeep foliage dry and clean up debrisstrong evidence — extension confidence
Water at the base rather than overhead and avoid handling wet plants; remove and discard infected debris after harvest and rotate beans away from the same spot for a couple of years.
- OrganicApply a labeled fungicide if severe· every 1 wk · ~3 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence
If rust is spreading early in the crop, apply a labeled fungicide per the label on a regular schedule, covering leaf undersides where pustules form.
Blister beetles
Pestmoderate- CulturalHand-pick wearing gloves· every 2 daysmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Wear gloves (these beetles release a blistering fluid) and knock beetles into soapy water, or use row cover ahead of swarms; their larvae eat grasshopper eggs, so tolerate light feeding when you can.
- OrganicSpot-treat heavy swarms· every 1 wkmoderate evidence — extension confidence
If a large swarm threatens a planting, a pyrethrin or other labeled insecticide can knock them back per the label; avoid spraying open blooms to protect pollinators.
Botrytis gray mold
Diseasemoderate- CulturalRemove infected tissue and old blossomsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Prune out moldy leaves, stems, and fruit and clear fallen blossoms and debris where the fungus gets started, disposing of them rather than composting.
- CulturalImprove airflow and reduce leaf wetnessstrong evidence — extension confidence
Space and stake plants for good air movement, water at the base in the morning, and harvest ripe fruit promptly so botrytis has fewer cool, humid, wet surfaces to colonize.
Herbicide drift damage (growth-regulator)
Disordermoderate- CulturalIdentify the source and protect future plantingsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Growth-regulator herbicides like 2,4-D and dicamba cause this distortion via drift or contaminated sprayers and mulch; identify and stop the source, and never use a sprayer that previously held herbicide on the garden.
- CulturalSupport recovery if exposure was lightmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Plants only lightly exposed (not directly sprayed) often outgrow the damage; keep them watered and lightly fed so they can push out normal new growth, though fruiting may be delayed.
Iron deficiency (interveinal chlorosis)
Deficiencymoderate- CulturalTest and address soil pHstrong evidence — extension confidence
Iron is present but unavailable in high-pH soils, so test soil pH and, for the affected bed, lower pH toward the crop's preferred range (especially important for acid-loving blueberries) rather than just adding iron.
- OrganicUse chelated iron for a quick correction· every 2 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence
A foliar spray or soil drench of chelated iron can green up new growth per the label; soil-applied ferrous iron quickly oxidizes and becomes unavailable in high-pH soil, so chelate plus pH management works best.
Japanese beetles
Pestmoderate- CulturalHandpick into soapy water· every 1 days · ~4 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence
In early morning when beetles are sluggish, knock them into a bucket of soapy water; daily removal also reduces the scent that draws in more beetles. Skip the lure traps, which tend to attract more beetles than they catch.
- CulturalCover plants past bloommoderate evidence — extension confidence
On crops that have finished flowering and set fruit, drape a row cover or netting to keep beetles off without blocking pollination during bloom.
Mexican bean beetle
Pestmoderate- CulturalHand-pick adults, larvae, and egg masses· every 3 days · ~3 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence
Check undersides and crush the yellow egg clusters and spiny larvae; sustained hand-picking controls small plantings.
Potassium deficiency
Deficiencymoderate- CulturalConfirm with a soil test firststrong evidence — extension confidence
Edge scorch on older leaves has several causes, so get a soil test before adding potassium; over-applying can lock out magnesium and calcium.
- OrganicApply potassium per soil-test guidancemoderate evidence — extension confidence
If the test confirms low potassium, apply a potassium source (such as sulfate of potash) at the labeled/test-recommended rate and keep watering even, since drought worsens uptake.
Root rot from overwatering / poor drainage
Diseasemoderate- CulturalLet soil drain and water lessstrong evidence — extension confidence
Water root rots like Pythium thrive in saturated soil, so cut back watering, let the surface dry between irrigations, and water at the base rather than keeping soil constantly wet.
- CulturalImprove drainage and aerationstrong evidence — extension confidence
Use raised beds, loosen compacted soil, and add organic matter to improve drainage; remove plants that are already rotted since affected roots won't recover.
Spider mites
Pestmoderate- CulturalHose down and raise humidity· every 3 days · ~2 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence
Mites thrive in hot, dry, dusty conditions. Spray foliage (especially undersides) with water to dislodge them and reduce dust.
- OrganicInsecticidal soap or horticultural oil - label use only· every 5 days · ~2 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Apply to undersides per label; mites resist many products, so soaps/oils are preferred. Not in extreme heat.
Stink bugs (brown marmorated and native)
Pestmoderate- CulturalExclude with row cover and clear nearby weedsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Cover susceptible crops with floating row cover before bugs arrive, and remove weeds and groundcover near the garden in early spring where stink bugs feed before moving to crops. Lift covers on flowering crops that need pollination.
- CulturalHand-pick bugs and egg masses· every 3 daysstrong evidence — extension confidence
Scout in the morning and drop adults, nymphs, and egg clusters into a bucket of soapy water; regular hand-picking keeps low populations in check since most garden insecticides work poorly on adults.
- OrganicSpot-treat young nymphs if numbers climb· every 1 wkmoderate evidence — extension confidence
If small nymphs are abundant, a botanical such as pyrethrin or azadirachtin, or insecticidal oil, may give some suppression per the label; adults are largely unaffected, so rely mainly on exclusion and hand-picking.
Tarnished plant bug / lygus
Pestmoderate- CulturalManage surrounding weedsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Keep broadleaf weeds mowed or removed around the garden, since lygus build up on flowering weeds and move to crops as those weeds dry down; avoid mowing large weedy areas right beside fruiting crops at bloom.
- CulturalVacuum or shake plants to monitor and reduce· every 5 daysmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Tap plants over a light-colored tray to check for nymphs; a handheld vacuum used once or twice weekly can hold low to moderate numbers down on small plantings.
- OrganicTreat nymphs if damage is building· every 1 wkmoderate evidence — extension confidence
For active nymph infestations, azadirachtin or a Beauveria bassiana product can give some control per the label; preserve the parasitic wasps and other natural enemies that help suppress lygus.
Thrips on fruiting vegetables
Pestmoderate- CulturalRemove weed and crop reservoirsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Control flowering weeds in and around the garden and remove spent host crops promptly, since thrips build up on these and move onto fruiting vegetables; avoid planting next to onions, garlic, or cereals where thrips numbers spike.
- CulturalKeep plants vigorous and rinse foliagemoderate evidence — extension confidence
Water and feed adequately so plants tolerate feeding, and a forceful water spray can knock down populations; reflective mulch can also deter thrips from settling on young plants.
- OrganicTreat with spinosad or oil if needed· every 1 wkmoderate evidence — extension confidence
If thrips are damaging growing points or fruit, spinosad or insecticidal soap/oil can help per the label; rotate modes of action and avoid spraying open blooms to protect pollinators and natural enemies.
Wireworms
PestmoderateUnusual this time of year.
- CulturalRotate away from grassy groundstrong evidence — extension confidence
Avoid planting susceptible crops right after sod, pasture, or grass cover, where wireworms build up; rotate to a less-favored crop and let infested beds dry out between plantings.
- CulturalBait-trap to monitor· every 5 days · ~3 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Bury pieces of carrot or potato or a handful of soaked wheat seed as bait when soil reaches about 50F, check after several days, and remove the worms you find to gauge and reduce pressure.
Aphids
Pestlow- CulturalBlast off with water· every 3 days · ~2 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence
Knock colonies off with a strong jet of water in the morning; repeat every few days. Light infestations rarely need more.
- OrganicInsecticidal soap - label use only· every 1 wk · ~3 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence
For persistent colonies apply insecticidal soap to undersides per label. Avoid open flowers.
Earwigs
Pestlow- CulturalTrap and remove· every 1 days · ~2 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence
Set rolled damp newspaper, low tuna-style cans of oil, or short tubes near plants at dusk, then dump trapped earwigs into soapy water each morning; reduce mulch and damp hiding spots near vulnerable seedlings.
- OrganicApply a bait only if damage persists· every 1 wkmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Established plants usually tolerate earwigs, which also eat aphids; if seedlings are being destroyed, a spinosad-based bait labeled for earwigs can help per the label.