Vermont Cranberry Dried Bean (Heirloom 70-95 Days)

A beloved heirloom in New England since the 18th century. The cranberry-red beans are early maturing and suited for growing in northern gardens. The flavor is equally sweet and earthy, with a smooth texture. Pods are 6” long, hold 5-6 beans, and are used as a shelling or dried bean.  They are an all-purpose bean, used in soups, salads, for baking, and in a variety of other delicious ways. Semi-bush type. Grown in Maine.

1 oz. (approx. 65-80 seeds)

PLANTING

Phaseolus vulgaris

Germination: 4-10 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 70-85ºF

Seed Sowing Depth: 1” deep 

Sowing Outdoors: After the last frost, when soil temperatures are above 60ºF. Sow 2-3” apart. Planting in soil under 60ºF results in poor germination. 

How much does a packet plant: 12-15 foot single row 

Harvest: Leave beans on the plant until most of the leaves have turned brown and pods are dried and withered. If fall weather is wet or frost threatens the harvest, pull up the plants, and finish drying indoors. 

Tips: Grow in light, well-drained soil, and provide adequate, even moisture, especially at flowering time. Dry soil can result in low yields and fibrous pods. Do not over-fertilize with nitrogen, which results in a surplus of foliage and low, delayed pod growth. Adding inoculant at planting time aids in a larger harvest and more robust plants.