Bean Seeds,
Purple Teepee

Plant Purple Teepee beans after the last frost when soil temperatures are consistently above 60 F, ideally 70-80 F. These beans have a relatively short growing season, maturing in about 60 days. For a continuous harvest, consider sowing seeds every two weeks throughout the growing season​​. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

Soak seeds overnight. Prepare the garden bed by clearing weeds and adding 2 to 4 inches of aged manure or compost to improve soil fertility and drainage. Sow seeds 1/2 to 1 inch deep and 4 inches apart in rows spaced 18 to 24 inches apart. Ensure the planting site receives full sun​.

Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but avoid waterlogging. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Purple Teepee beans benefit from a balanced fertilizer, but avoid excessive nitrogen which can promote leafy growth at the expense of pods. These beans do not require support as they have a bush habit. Pick frequently to keep plants productive.

• Common beans do not easily cross pollinate and can be grown close to one another, making them the ideal seed-saving project for beginners.
• Save seeds from the best-looking, best-tasting, and most vigorous beans.
• Leave pods on the plant to dry. Pull the plants and shake them vigorously into a bag to release the beans from the pods (same as you would for using them as dried beans).
• Store in a cool, dry place for the winter (a glass jar in the refrigerator works well!).