Organic 'Blue Lake Pole' climbing bean
'Blue Lake Pole' organic climbing bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) from Gaia seed company, a classic climbing bean, tender and remarkably productive
The 'Blue Lake Pole' bean is a heritage variety prized for its long, straight, stringless pods with an exceptionally smooth texture and a more pronounced flavor than bush varieties. The vigorous vines continuously produce numerous round to oval , dark green, tender, and fleshy pods, 15 to 18 cm long. Thanks to its extended harvest window, it constantly renews its pods when harvested regularly. Its enduring popularity stems from its prolific production , making it ideal for vertical gardens.
Companion plants : Corn, Carrot, Cabbage, Cucumber, Peas, Radish, Potato, Squash, Nasturtium, Rosemary
Nefarious plants : Alliums, Beetroot
Spread/Carrying : Vigorous climber, requires support
Plant height : 200 to 300 cm
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Stringless bean, smooth and fleshy pods, rich flavor, very high yield, extended harvest
Leaf color : Medium green
Texture/flavor : Tender, sweet flesh, more flavorful than bush varieties
Cold tolerance : Not frost tolerant
Farming method
Soak the seeds for a maximum of 8 hours in lukewarm water (longer soaking results in mortality). Sow directly after the last frost , at a depth of 2.5–5 cm .
Space the plants 7 to 10 cm apart, with 30 cm between rows. Germination takes 8 to 10 days at 21 and 30 °C , optimum 26 °C .
Place in full sun (level 3) with moderate watering (level 2). Install a sturdy trellis, teepee, or netting : this bean produces long climbing stems. For a continuous harvest, sow every 3 weeks .
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest the young, full pods while they are still plump.
To obtain dried beans, let the pods dry completely on the plant, ensuring good ventilation.
Store only dry grains , in an airtight container, away from moisture.
Usage ideas
• As fresh green beans , steamed or sautéed
• In home preserves
• As a crunchy accompaniment to summer dishes
• In a pan or in a wok
• Abundant harvest for freezing
The 'Blue Lake Pole' bean remains an undisputed heritage classic : productive, delicious, stringless and perfect for vertical gardens or crops aiming for a prolonged yield.
