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Growing Provider Bush Beans in the Vegetable Garden

Bush beans can be started indoors, but perform best if sown directly after the final spring frost. Sow 2-3 seeds 1 inch deep and 2-3 inches apart in moist, organically rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8. Whether direct sowing or transplanting, thin out the strongest starts every 18-24 inches in the garden as true leaves establish. Beans need light, consistent watering, but when doing so, water as close to the roots as possible to avoid saturating the greens, which are known to cause root rot and mildew.

Seeds can be sown in cooler soils than most other bush beans can handle, but the soil should be at least 65 F. Make sure the soil is loose and moist, and the plants are in full sun. For an ongoing harvest, sow seeds every week or so so that different plants are at different stages of production. Pack a one-inch layer of soil over the seeds, and arrange them in rows 2 feet apart with plants 4 inches apart. Water them quite often to make sure the sun doesn't dehydrate them. Seeds should be sown directly in loose soil with two inches allowed between each plant and twenty inches between each row. Cover each seed with one inch of soil in full sun. To avoid letting the plants wilt in the sun, water them often, but do so near the roots so as not to cause disease on the leaves.

Harvesting Provider Bush Beans

Provider bush beans are ready to harvest about 50-60 days from sowing or once the pods are 5-8 inches long. Harvest often to encourage fruiting and to ensure pods do not dehydrate on the vine. Although some pods may pull cleanly from the vine, use a knife or shears for more fibrous pods to avoid accidental damage to the plant. Like many crops in the garden, beans are widely believed to be best harvested in the morning for optimal sugar content.

About Provider Bush Bean Garden Seeds

The Provider Bush Bean was developed in the U.S. in the 1960s specifically for its early production, disease resistance, and adaptability. It was bred to thrive in various growing conditions, including cooler soils, allowing for early planting. The bean was also selected for its strong resistance to common diseases.

Snap beans, like Provider, are low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals. They are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and fiber, which support heart health and digestion.

Provider Bush Beans are primarily used as snap beans, meaning they are eaten fresh and enjoyed for their crisp texture and sweet, mild flavor. They're perfect for steaming, sautéing, stir-fries, or even raw in salads.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Provider Bush Beans grow well alongside crops like carrots, cucumbers, corn, and marigolds. These companions can help deter pests and improve soil health. Avoid planting beans near onions, garlic, or fennel, as these plants can inhibit bean growth."

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer