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Growing Winged Beans in the Vegetable Garden

For better germination, pre-sprout seeds indoors by soaking in water for 24 hours until swollen and then keep at 77 F until sprouted. Scarify seed coats (gently rub with sandpaper) of the ones that did not swell and resoak. Plant them as soon as they start to germinate. Winged beans should be planted directly in the garden, as they do not transplant well due to their delicate root systems. Sow seeds about 1-2 inches deep in the soil. If you live in a cooler region, you can start seeds indoors in biodegradable pots that can be directly planted in the garden without disturbing the roots. Winged beans thrive in warm, tropical climates, so soil temperatures should be at least 75 F for germination.

Plant seeds 24 inches apart to give each plant sufficient space to climb and spread. Rows should be spaced about 36-48 inches apart. Provide sturdy trellises or stakes immediately after planting. Winged beans need consistent moisture but should not sit in waterlogged soil. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods. While winged beans fix nitrogen in the soil, they benefit from additional fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) during planting and again midseason. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it can lead to leaf growth at the expense of flowers and pods. While winged beans fix nitrogen in the soil, they benefit from additional fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) during planting and again midseason. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers and pods.

Harvesting Winged Beans

Pods are best harvested while young and tender, at about 6-9 inches long, usually 2-3 weeks after flowering. 3-4 weeks after flowering, the pods become fibrous and undesirable for eating. Wait until the pods turn brown and crack open (about six weeks after flowering) for dry bean harvest. Use sharp scissors or a knife to cut pods from the vine carefully to avoid damaging the plant. Regular harvesting encourages more pod production. If you plan to save seeds, leave a few pods to mature and dry on the vine.

About Winged Bean Garden Seeds

Almost every part of the plant is edible. The young beans are used as a vegetable similar to green beans; the leaves are cooked and eaten like spinach; the roots are similar in usage and texture to potatoes; the flowers are edible and used as garnishes or dyes. Lastly, the dried seeds can be ground and used for flour.

Winged beans are native to Southeast Asia and have a long history as a subsistence crop in tropical regions, where their versatility as a food source and ability to improve soil fertility made them a staple.

Alternate names: Asparagus pea, Winged pea, Four Angled bean, four-cornered bean, Manila bean, cigarillas, Princess bean, goa bean, kecipir, and Dragon bean.

Stories From Our Gardeners

"The more I learn about the different fruits and vegetables this abundant earth offers, the more I realize how narrow-minded most of western society is when it comes to food. Skip the classic french beans this year and opt for the ever-useful winged bean!"

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer