Beans are a great crop rotation plant. They help maintain the soil by replacing its nitrogen after depletion from other crops.
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Starting
Sow outdoors in spring 2-5cm (1-2”) deep/apart. Row spacing 30-45cm (12-18”) apart. For a constant supply all season long, plant every 2 weeks until 8 weeks before final frost. Plant in well-drained soil in full sun. Germination in 6-14 days.
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Growing
Thin to 10-15cm (4-6”) apart when seedlings are 10cm (4”) high.
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Harvesting
Maturity in 51-55 days, height 45cm (18”). Pods are ready to pick when they snap easily. Regular picking will encourage more production
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Seed Saving
Allow the pods to dry on the still-growing plant until the bean seeds rattle loosely inside the pods. Pick pods and let dry inside for another 1-2 weeks. Remove the seeds from the pods and store in a cool, dry location.
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Companion Planting
Plant with: beets, brassicas (kale, cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage), corn Don’t plant with: chive, onion, garlic
