Organic snap climbing bean 'Kew Blue Pole Snap'
'Kew Blue Pole Snap' organic climbing bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) from Gaia seed company, an exceptional purple snap bean, productive and resistant to cold
The 'Kew Blue Pole Snap' bean is a heritage variety originating from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew , notable for its deep purple stems, leaves, and pods . Its semi-flattened , fleshy, and crisp pods offer a delicious flavor even when raw , making it a top-quality snap bean. Well-suited to cool, wet conditions , it germinates well in cold spring soils and produces early, with new pods appearing continuously on the vines. The seeds dry quickly before rain, making it one of Gaia's most productive pole beans, once a staple in their vegetable markets.
Companion plants : Corn, Carrot, Cabbage, Cucumber, Peas, Radish, Potato, Squash, Nasturtium, Rosemary
Nefarious plants : Alliums, Beetroot
Spread/growth : Climbing, vigorous, continuous production
Plant height : 180 to 240 cm
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Dark purple foliage and pods, excellent vintage, very productive, germinates in moist soil, Kew heritage variety
Leaf color : Dark purple
Texture/flavor : Crunchy, tender, excellent raw
Cold tolerance : Tolerates cool temperatures but not frost
Farming method
To improve germination, soak the seeds for a maximum of 8 hours in lukewarm water (longer soaking will kill the seeds). Sow directly after the last frost , at a depth of 2.5–5 cm .
Space the plants 7 to 10 cm apart and the rows 45 to 60 cm apart . Germination takes 8 to 10 days at around 26 °C .
Plant in full sun (level 3), with moderate watering (level 2). Provide a sturdy trellis : this bean is an excellent climber. For a continuous harvest, sow every 3 weeks .
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest the young, crisp pods for fresh consumption.
For dried beans , let the pods dry completely on the plant, ensuring good air circulation.
Store only dry seeds , in an airtight container.
Usage ideas
• In salads thanks to their crunch and purple color
• In stir-fries or quick Asian dishes
• As a crunchy bean eaten raw
• As a colorful accompaniment to summer dishes
• In home preserves or lacto-fermentation
The 'Kew Blue Pole Snap' bean is a heritage treasure : decorative, incredibly productive, delicious raw, and perfect for cooler climates. An exceptional choice for a rich and colorful vertical garden.
