Known as the most dependable early green bean, this easy-to-grow variety offers excellent flavor and is one of the best for freezing and canning. It germinates in cooler soil, adapts to diverse soil conditions, and is disease-resistant.
Round, straight pods grow on compact plants. Introduced in 1965 by horticulturist Dr. Hoffman of the U.S. Vegetable Laboratory in South Carolina. Container friendly!
Beans are a warm season crop. Sow seeds directly outdoors in a sunny location after danger of last frost, spring to early summer. In rows 18–24 inches apart, sow seeds about 3 inches apart and cover with 1 inch of fine soil. Firm lightly and keep evenly moist until seedlings emerge. Thin to stand about 6 inches apart once seedlings reach a height of 2 inches. Harvest tender pods frequently to keep plants producing.
Garden beans are picked young and tender before the seeds inside have fully developed. Pick garden beans every day; the more you pick, the more beans grow. Look for firm, sizable beans that are firm and can be snapped—generally as thick as a pencil. Snap or cut the beans off the plant, being careful not to tear the plant.
Saving bean seed is easy! Leave pods on the plants and harvest once they have hardened and dried out. Crack open the shells by hand, or stomp pods on a tarp if difficult to break. Separate seeds from chaff and store in a cool, dark place for up to three years. To ensure true-to-type seed, separate varieties by 30 feet in the garden.