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Growing Organic Light Red Kidney Beans in the Vegetable Garden
Light Red Kidney Beans should be directly sown into the garden, as they do not transplant well. Wait until the soil temperature reaches at least 60 F (15 C), usually a couple of weeks after the last frost date. Plant the seeds about 1-1.5 inches deep. If planting in rows, space the seeds 4-6 inches apart, with rows 18-24 inches apart. This spacing allows adequate room for each plant to grow and ensures proper air circulation, reducing the risk of disease.
Water the beans consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. During dry periods, you may need to water more frequently. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of disease; instead, water at the base of the plants. Keep the area around the beans weed-free, especially during the early stages of growth. Mulching can help suppress weeds and retain soil moisture.
Beans generally fix their own nitrogen, so they don't require a lot of nitrogen fertilizer. However, they do benefit from phosphorus and potassium. Before planting, incorporate compost or a balanced fertilizer into the soil. If needed, side-dress with a low-nitrogen fertilizer when the plants begin to flower.
Even though Light Red Kidney Beans are bush beans, they may still benefit from some support to keep the pods off the ground. Watch for pests like aphids and bean beetles. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed. Rotate crops yearly to prevent soil-borne diseases. Beans grow well with cucumbers, corn, and potatoes. Avoid planting them near alliums (garlic, onions) and fennel, which can inhibit their growth.
Harvesting Organic Light Red Kidney Beans
Light Red Kidney Beans are typically harvested as dry beans. This means you should wait until the pods have fully matured and turned a tan color and the beans inside rattle when shaken. This usually occurs about 85-95 days after planting. Pull up the entire plant when most of the pods have dried. Hang the plants upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area to continue drying. Once completely dry, shell the beans by hand or by threshing.
About Organic Light Red Kidney Bean Garden Seeds
Light Red Kidney Beans are an heirloom variety believed to have originated in Central and South America. They were bred for their rich nutritional content, versatility in cooking, and robust flavor. Their name comes from their distinctive shape and color, which resemble a kidney.
These beans are rich in protein, fiber, iron, and vitamins, making them a nutritious addition to the diet. They are particularly valued for their high antioxidant content.
As legumes, they fix nitrogen in the soil, improving soil fertility for subsequent crops.
They can be stored for long periods when dried, providing a reliable food source throughout the year.
Tips From Our Gardeners
"One of my favorite kidney bean recipes is Jamaican Rice and Beans. Just put dried kidney beans in an instant pot with dry brown rice, jerk seasoning, and chicken broth and you have a delicious and very inexpensive meal that will satisfy anyone!"
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- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer
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Other Resources
Organic Light Red Kidney Bean Seeds Per Package:
- 0.5 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 45 Seeds
- 1 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 1,520 Seeds
- 5 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 7,600 Seeds
- 25 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 38,000 Seeds
Non-GMO Organic Light Red Kidney Bean seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.
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ATTRIBUTES
Basic Info
Latin Name: |
Phaseolus vulgaris
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Bean Sub-Type: |
Not Applicable. |
Organic Light Red Kidney Bean Color: |
Red |
Organic Light Red Kidney Bean Flavor: |
They have a mild, slightly nutty flavor and a firm texture when cooked. |
Growing Info
Hardiness Zone: |
3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 Annual Crop: Not Intended to Overwinter |
Days to Maturity: |
85-95 |
Days to Germination: |
5-10 |
Seeding Depth: |
1 inch |
Plant Spacing: |
4-6 inches |
Row Spacing: |
18-24 inches |
Plant Height: |
12-24 inches |
Growth Habit: |
Upright |
Soil Preference: |
Beans prefer well-draining, nutrient-rich, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8. As light feeders and nitrogen-fixing legumes, beans do not require nitrogen-heavy fertilizers. |
Temperature Preference: |
Warmer (70-85 F). |
Light Preference: |
Full Sun |
Other
Direct Sow: |
Yes, direct sow when soil temperatures are reliably above 60 F. Planting with an inoculant may increase yields, but is certainly not required for a successful grow. |
Start Indoors: |
Not Recommended. Beans grow best without any root disturbance. We recommend direct sowing instead of transplanting. |
Bean Pollination: |
Beans are self-pollinating as they contain both the male and female parts within their flowers, unlike other fruit and vegetable plants. While they are self-pollinating, having a variety of pollinators and flowers around will improve yields by ensuring the greatest chances for pollinating events to occur. |
Snap or Shell Bean: |
Shell - Shell beans have a non-edible woody or fibrous husk that contains the edible beans within. For example, edamame has the beans inside, but you wouldn't want to eat the husk. Shell beans are also sometimes referred to as shelling beans. |
Pole or Bush Bean: |
Bush - Bush beans grow on low-growing, compact, upright, bushy plants that typically do not need a trellis, pole, or other support. Bush beans are usually favorable to container growing. |
Plant Width: |
12-18 inches |
Growth Speed: |
Late - Ready for harvest around 86 days or more. |
Deer Resistant: |
No |
Germination Temperature: |
70-90 F |
Pests and Diseases: |
Beans are susceptible to beetles, aphids, spider mites, and cutworms. Look for signs of chewing, curling leaves, eggs on the undersides of leaves, and leaf discoloration. Keeping your bean plants clean from dust build-up and surrounded by a variety of plants to help deter and prevent pest damage. Beans are also susceptible to powdery mildew, bean blight, rust, and root rot. Maintain a regular watering schedule that avoids overly saturated soil. The roots need adequate time to air out between waterings. This will also help prevent common fungal and bacterial diseases from developing. Good air circulation and applying water to the ground rather than the leaves will help maintain healthy bean plant growth. |
Garden Size: |
Greenhouse, Garden Plot, Raised Bed, Container, Field |
Bean Use: |
Soups, stews, and chili. They hold their shape well during cooking, making them ideal for dishes that require long simmering. |
Climate Tolerance: |
N/A |