DescriptionAunt Ada’s Italian Bean SeedsScientific Name: Phaseolus vulgarisFamily: PeaType: Hardy AnnualNative Range: Lower 48 States, Pacific Basin, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin IslandsHardiness Zones: beans are not hardy and will die with light frostSoil Requirements: Aunt Ada’s Italian Bean Seeds love warm and well-drained soil; slightly acidic pH [6.5 – 6.8];Light Preference: Full sunWater: ModerateDays until Germination: 8-16 daysSowing: Soak beans for 2-6 hours before planting. Sow directly into ground 2″- 3″ deep once soil is warm and last frost is past.Plant Spacing: Pole beans need support of a trellis or fence. Plant seeds 2″ to 3″ deep, 5″ to 6″ apart, in rows 4′ apart within an inch or two of the trellis or pole. For a tepee method, plant 6 to 7 seeds around each pole. Plant Height: Climbing. (Usually between 6′-10′).Harvest: 55-60 days if using as a snap bean; pick when outline of beans are bulging in the pod–usually when pods are 3″ long; let grow until pods brown if using as a soup bean; continue to dry pods under cover for 2-4 weeks before shelling and storing;Grows Well With: Carrots, cauliflower, beets, cucumbers, cabbage, small amounts of leek and celeriac, marigolds, corn, summer savory, radishesGrows Poorly With: Garlic, shallots, chives, gladiolus, kohlrabi, sunflower, beetsPotential Problems: Mexican bean beetles; bean weevils; lack of support for stalk; sclerotinia white mold; Uses & Cooking Suggestions: Delicious green bean great for steaming, as well as dried for use in soups.
