Whole and cut Derby Beans arranged on a white background.
Whole and cut Derby Beans arranged on a light background.
Whole Derby Bush Beans stacked up on some foliage on a white background.
Whole and cut Derby Beans arranged on a white background.
Whole and cut Derby Beans arranged on a light background.
Whole Derby Bush Beans stacked up on some foliage on a white background.

Bean Seeds,
Derby

4.84 Reviews#BN216 · 40 seeds
Price
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Description

(Phaseolus vulgaris). Bush bean. Derby really brings the goods. In just about 50 days, the compact bush plants produce loads of long, straight, deep green pods up to 7 inches brimming with classic fresh bean flavor. A 1990 All-America Selections winner, Derby is known for its reliable yields, excellent size, and great taste, with tidy plants that produce heavily for easy, steady harvests, making this a dependable, high-output variety that keeps things simple, and delicious.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Phaseolus vulgaris
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Bush
Sun Requirement
6–8 hr.
Days to Germinate
7–14
Days to Maturity
50–60
Planting Depth
½–1 in.
Plant Spacing
3–6 in.
Ideal Temperature
65–85°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Plant Derby beans outdoors once the soil temperature consistently reaches at least 60°F, ideally 1–2 weeks after your last expected spring frost. In warm regions, a second sowing in midsummer ensures continued harvest into fall. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds directly into well-worked soil in full sun, spacing them 3 to 6 inches apart in rows spaced 18 to 24 inches apart. Plant seeds 1 inch deep and water gently but thoroughly.

How to Grow

Maintain even moisture, especially during flowering and pod development. Mulching helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid overhead watering. Support is generally not required due to the bush habit, but staking may help in windy areas or with heavy yields.

How to Save Seeds

  • Allow pods to fully mature and dry on the plant
  • Harvest when pods are brittle and beans rattle inside
  • Shell dried pods and remove seeds
  • Store seeds in a cool, dry, dark place in airtight containers
  • Label with variety and year collected

FAQ

How many beans will one plant produce?

Each Derby bean plant typically yields around 20 to 30 pods over its lifespan, depending on growing conditions and care.

Can I grow Derby beans in containers?

Yes! Choose a large container (at least 12 inches deep), use well-draining potting soil, and ensure 6 to 8 hours of sun daily.

Do Derby beans need to be trellised?

No, Derby beans are bush types and do not require trellising. However, light support can help with airflow and harvesting ease.

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Customer reviews

4.8 / 5 4 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Prolific producer: Reliable, heavy yields year after year.

  • Classic bean flavor: Great fresh, steamed, baked, or in a stir fry.

  • Easy to grow: Up within days of sowing; a great beginner bean.

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