Provider beans are a vigorous, strong-rooted bush variety known for their adaptability and tender, low-fiber pods. These 5.5-inch green pods are sweet and flavorful, making them ideal for fresh eating, freezing, and canning. Provider beans are resistant to several diseases, including Bean Common Mosaic Virus, making them an excellent choice for gardeners who value both quality and resilience.
Key Features
- Sweet Flavor: Perfect for fresh eating.
- Disease Resistant: Resists Bean Common Mosaic Virus.
- Adaptable: Thrives in various conditions.
Green Bean Sowing Guide
Outdoor Sowing (Directly in the Garden)
- Timing: Sow green bean seeds outdoors once the soil has warmed to at least 60°F, typically in late spring after the last frost date.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Green beans prefer well-draining, moderately fertile soil.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches, and work in compost or a balanced fertilizer to improve nutrient levels.
- Planting Seeds:
- Sow seeds about 1 inch deep, spacing them 2-4 inches apart in rows.
- Leave 18-24 inches between rows
- Thinning: Green beans don't require thinning, as seeds are planted at a spacing suitable for mature plants.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which typically takes 7-10 days. Once established, water evenly, providing about 1 inch per week, especially during flowering and pod development.
Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)
- Timing: Green beans are typically sown directly outdoors. However, if starting indoors, sow 2-3 weeks before the last frost date.
- Containers: Use deep pots or biodegradable containers to minimize root disturbance when transplanting.
- Planting:
- Sow seeds 1 inch deep, placing 1 seed per pot.
- Cover lightly with soil mix and water gently.
- Germination:
- Keep temperatures around 70-75°F for optimal germination.
- Expect seedlings to emerge within 5-7 days.
- Thinning: Not required if only one seed per pot.
- Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors once soil temperatures are consistently above 60°F and after the last frost. Plant seedlings 3-4 inches apart.
General Care Tips for Green Beans
- Sunlight: Provide full sun with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, especially during flowering and pod formation. Mulch around plants to retain soil moisture and reduce weeds.
- Fertilizing: Green beans are light feeders, often thriving without additional fertilizer if the soil is enriched at planting. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can reduce bean production.
- Weeding: Keep the area weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients and moisture. Mulching helps control weed growth and maintain soil moisture.
