DescriptionOrca Soup Bean SeedsScientific Name: Phaseolus vulgarisFamily: PeaType: Hardy AnnualNative Range: Lower 48 States, Pacific Basin, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin IslandsHardiness Zones: 5 and 13; beans are not hardy and will die with light frost;Soil Requirements: Warm and well-drained; slightly acidic pH [6.5 – 6.8];Light Preference: Full sunWater: ModerateDays until Germination: 8-16 daysSowing: Soak orca beans for 2-6 hours before planting. Sow directly into ground 2″- 3″ deep once soil is warm and last frost is past—roughly two weeks.Plant Spacing: Plant orca soup bean seeds 2″ to 3″ deep, 2″ apart, in rows 18″-36″ apart. Plant Height: 1′-2′Harvest: 85-105 days; allow plants to mature until pods brown; allow pods to dry 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: Beautiful white and black beans that can be dried and used in soups, salad, or to top dishes.
