‘Cherokee Cornfield’ pole bean, certified organic seeds (Phaseolus vulgaris)
Phaseolus vulgaris
‘Cherokee Cornfield’ pole bean, certified organic seeds (Phaseolus vulgaris) This heirloom produces earth-toned beans and yields generously when grown on a trellis. Traditionally used as a shell bean, it can be prepared like edamame: boil the pods, then pop out the small beans before eating. Vigorous vines reach approximately 6 to 8 feet. The packet contains 25 seeds certified organic by Ecocert Canada. Cherokee Cornfield is an annual open-pollinated variety. Kew recognizes Phaseolus vulgaris as an accepted species in the Fabaceae family. Its vertical habit makes productive use of garden space while creating an attractive edible screen.
Direct sow after the last frost, once the soil has warmed. Place seeds 1 to 2 inches deep and 3 to 4 inches apart. Gaia lists 6 to 12 inches between rows; allow extra room when easy access between trellises is important. A temperature of 21 to 31°C, preferably around 26°C, supports germination in 8 to 10 days. Install sturdy support at sowing time to avoid disturbing roots later. Grow in full sun and fertile loose well-drained soil. Maintain even moisture without waterlogging. Guide young vines toward the trellis and keep the planting weeded while roots establish.
Maturity is listed at approximately 48 days for the shell-bean harvest. Boil the pods as you would edamame, then pop out the small beans and cook them completely before serving. For a dry crop, instead allow pods and enclosed seeds to reach full maturity. Maintain generous airflow around the vines so pods can dry late in the season. Harvest before an extended rainy period and finish drying under cover when necessary. Shell crisp pods, sort the beans, and discard stained or damaged seeds. Gaia recommends freezing dry beans for storage. Successive sowings at three-week intervals can help extend the harvest when the local growing season permits.
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