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Growing Purple Queen Bush Beans in the Vegetable Garden

The Purple Queen Bush Bean is best sown directly into the garden soil once the danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature has reached at least 60 F. Work some balanced fertilizer or compost into the soil before planting to provide the necessary nutrients. Purple Queen Bush Beans require consistent moisture, particularly when flowering and forming pods. Water the plants deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather. It’s essential to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Mulching around the plants can help retain soil moisture and keep the roots cool.

Regular weeding is crucial, especially when the plants are young. Be careful when weeding so as not to disturb the shallow root systems. As the beans grow, their foliage will begin to shade the ground, which helps suppress weeds. Also, be on the lookout for pests such as aphids or bean beetles, and manage them as needed. Purple Queen Bush Beans do well when planted alongside carrots, cucumbers, strawberries, and marigolds. Avoid planting them near onions, garlic, or fennel, as these can inhibit bean growth.

Harvesting Purple Queen Bush Beans

Purple Queen Bush Beans are typically ready to harvest 50-65 days after planting. You’ll know they’re ready when the pods are about 5-6 inches long, firm, and have a deep purple color. Harvesting at the right time is key—if left too long, the beans can become tough. To harvest, simply use your fingers to gently pinch the pods off the plant or use scissors to snip them away. Be careful not to damage the plant when harvesting, as it will continue to produce more pods over several weeks. This variety is a snap bean, meaning it is harvested and eaten while the pods are still tender and the beans inside are immature.

About Purple Queen Bush Bean Garden Seeds

One of the most interesting characteristics of the Purple Queen Bush Bean is its color-changing property—the purple pods turn green when cooked.

This bean also stands out for its ability to thrive in various climates, including hotter and drier conditions.

Purple Queen Bush Beans, like other beans, are low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins A and C, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium. The anthocyanins responsible for the bean's purple color are powerful antioxidants that can contribute to overall health.

It’s a fantastic option for adding color to your garden, and its ease of care makes it suitable for gardeners of all levels. The beans' mild, sweet flavor and crisp texture appeal to a wide range of palates.

Stories From Our Gardeners

"Cooking these purple beans is so fun with kids. You can literally watch the purple change to green. They will be amazed!"

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer