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French filet green bush bean
Fabaceae
Organic bush-bean seeds
Organic 'Maxibel' filet bush bean
Phaseolus vulgaris
Product code : BIOVO-0043
'Maxibel' is a French filet bush bean producing long, straight, very slender, dark-green, stringless pods approximately 18 cm long. Upright plants reach about 50–60 cm and provide an extended pod set, with harvest generally beginning in 50–55 days. Pick young pods every day or two to preserve their firm, tender, delicate texture and encourage new blossoms. The variety has documented resistance to anthracnose and bean common mosaic virus. Direct-sow in warm, well-drained soil, water at the base during flowering, and avoid excess nitrogen. Compact growth normally requires no trellis and suits raised beds or large containers. Cook every pod before serving and refrigerate the harvest promptly.
- Exposure
- Full sun
- Life cycle
- Warm-season annual
Discover the plant
Common nameFilet bush bean, French bean
FamilyFabaceae
GenusPhaseolus
Speciesvulgaris
CultivarMaxibel
TypeFrench filet green bush bean
Botanical namePhaseolus vulgaris
Organic 'Maxibel' filet bush bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is a French filet bush variety known for long, straight, slender, dark-green, stringless pods. Pods reach approximately 18 cm while retaining a firm delicate texture when harvested before seed swelling. Upright 50–60 cm plants carry an abundant extended crop that is easy to see and pick. Its fine flavour suits steaming, stir-fries, warm salads, freezing after blanching, and canning from a tested recipe. Their fine filet grade and uniform shape also make an elegant side dish served whole with a simple lemon dressing.
Direct-sow after all frost risk once soil has warmed to at least 16–18°C, 2.5–3 cm deep. Plant in full sun, spacing seed 8–10 cm apart in rows 45–60 cm apart. Soil should be loose, well drained, and moderately fertile because excess nitrogen promotes leaves at the expense of blossoms and pods. Maintain steady moisture especially during flowering and pod fill, while allowing the surface to breathe between waterings. Bush habit normally requires no trellis; sow every two or three weeks to extend harvest. Weed shallowly to avoid disturbing the sensitive roots, then mulch only after the ground has warmed.
First harvest generally begins approximately 50 to 55 days after sowing depending on temperature and desired stage. Inspect plants every day or two and pick smooth snappy pods before they become bumpy. Regular picking encourages new blossom formation and takes advantage of 'Maxibel's characteristic extended pod set. 'Maxibel' has resistance to anthracnose and bean common mosaic virus; resistance does not mean immunity. Crop rotation, good airflow, and watering at soil level remain essential. Remove badly affected tissue promptly and avoid handling foliage while it is wet. Chill harvested pods promptly.
Sowing guide
It all startswith a seed.
Sowing depth
Approximately 2.5 to 3 cm (1 to 1 1/4 in)
Spacing / density
Approximately 8 to 10 cm (3 to 4 in) between plants and 45 to 60 cm (18 to 24 in) between rows
Germination temperature
Approximately 18 to 29 °C (64.4 to 84.2 °F)
Germination time
Approximately 6 to 12 days in suitably warm soil; avoid sowing into cold, saturated soil.
Sowing period
After all frost risk once soil is warm, from late May into mid-July depending on first-frost date Adjust these dates to your local frost dates and soil conditions; Canadian growing seasons vary by region.
Propagation
Direct sowing only after soil warms
Growing method
Growing 'Maxibel' bean from seed. One to two weeks after final frost, direct-sow 2.5–3 cm deep in soil at least 16–18°C. Space 8–10 cm apart with 45–60 cm between rows; do not transplant. Keep moist until emergence, then mulch once soil is warm. Water at the base during bloom without excess nitrogen. Sow another row two or three weeks later. From 50–55 days, pick smooth green pods every day or two while supporting branches. After emergence, thin only where seeds are crowded and cut extra seedlings instead of pulling roots. Weed shallowly, then mulch once soil is warm. No trellis is normally needed, although a small stake ring supports loaded branches. From approximately 50–55 days, pick every day or two before seeds swell. Hold stems during harvest, avoid wet foliage, and remove severely diseased plants. Record each sowing date and rotate afterward for three or four years. Cool harvested pods promptly and clean tools before moving from diseased rows to healthy plants. During hot weather, check moisture more often and keep mulch away from stems. Refrigerate pods promptly and use slightly marked beans first. Do not leave baskets in direct sun, and cook all pods before serving.
Soil and care
The right care,at the right time.
Soil pH
Approximately 6.0 to 7.0
Care level
Easy
Watering
The compact row of 'Maxibel' filet bush bean needs even moisture when flowers open and its straight, round, very slender, smooth dark-green pods approximately 18 cm long begin filling. Water 'Maxibel' filet bush bean slowly at soil level, then let the surface start drying; saturation around newly sown seed can delay establishment. Morning irrigation keeps 'Maxibel' filet bush bean's foliage drier and permits pod inspection without carrying moisture between plants. Check container-grown 'Maxibel' filet bush bean more often during bloom and harvest, emptying standing water immediately. Pick 'Maxibel' filet bush bean's mature pods regularly and reassess moisture after hot or windy days instead of following a rigid schedule.
Soil type
Prepare loose, well-drained soil for the compact roots and concentrated pod set of 'Maxibel' filet bush bean. Mix mature compost through 'Maxibel' filet bush bean's bed without compressing it, and avoid low ground where cool water surrounds newly sown seed. For 'Maxibel' filet bush bean, the supplied pH guidance is approximately 6.0 to 7.0; test first and amend only when results justify it. Give container-grown 'Maxibel' filet bush bean the recommended root volume and airy mix, with clear drainage and a support that does not crush roots. A level 'Maxibel' filet bush bean seedbed promotes even emergence and prevents later watering from pooling around individual plants.
Fertilization
'Maxibel' seldom benefits from heavy nitrogen fertilizer. Let a soil test guide any corrective amendment. Healthy roots let 'Maxibel' filet bush bean obtain nitrogen through nodules. Split necessary feeding instead of using one strong dose. For Filet bush bean, too much nitrogen delays pod development behind foliage. Review growth stage before scheduling the next feeding. For 'Maxibel', its stems should remain supported without lush growth. Correct drainage and moisture before increasing fertility. For 'Maxibel' filet bush bean, avoid disturbing the root zone once flowering approaches.
Moisture
Steady moisture during flowering and pod formation without saturation
Seasonal care
Seasonal care for 'Maxibel' bean. In spring, wait for warm soil, direct-sow, and temporarily protect seedlings from birds or slugs. Weed shallowly before roots fill the space. During summer, mulch, water at the base, and inspect leaf undersides for aphids and beetle eggs. Pick every day or two without handling wet foliage to limit disease spread. After final harvest, remove diseased plants; healthy plants may be composted. Rotate the site with non-legume crops. During growth, avoid nitrogen-rich feeding that favours leaves over blossoms. Once harvest begins, pick every day or two while supporting branches with one hand. During very hot weather, check moisture more often and keep mulch away from stems. Remove overmature pods and severely spotted leaves. At season end, wash stakes and tools, record sowing and first-harvest dates, then follow a three- or four-year rotation. Keep container drainage open, empty saucers after watering, and chill every harvest promptly. Do not leave baskets in direct sun. When disease appears, remove affected tissue without shaking spores onto neighbouring rows and avoid reusing contaminated mulch. During successive sowings, keep every row labelled so the oldest is picked first. Refrigerate pods promptly and cook every harvest before serving. Check watering after heavy rain rather than following a fixed schedule, and protect new seedlings briefly when birds remain active. Keep harvest baskets clean, dry, shaded, and ready beside the row.
Container growing
A garden,within reach.
Recommended pot size
At least 30 L and 30 cm (12 in) deep for three or four plants
Growing 'Maxibel' bean in containers. Grow three or four plants in a stable container of at least 30 L and 30 cm deep with several drainage holes. Use loose compost-containing potting mix, space seed approximately 10 cm apart, and place in full sun. No trellis is normally needed, although a small stake ring may prevent loaded branches from bending. Check moisture daily during bloom, water to drainage, and empty the saucer. Harvest frequently. A smaller pot dries too quickly and restricts pod number. Apply light mulch after the mix warms without covering stems. Feed at low strength only if foliage pales despite proper moisture. Rotate the pot weekly for even light and pick every day or two. Promptly remove overmature pods and severely diseased leaves. Keep drainage holes clear, protect the container from roof runoff, and chill the harvest immediately. At season end, clean the pot and refresh part of the mix before another crop. Keep it away from walls that create excessive reflected heat. Preserve access around the pot so picking does not break branches. During heat waves, move it away from reflective surfaces and check moisture twice daily without leaving roots in standing water. Label each sowing and record the first harvest date.
Bloom and dimensions
Its place,in your garden.
Mature height
Approximately 50 to 60 cm (20 to 24 in)
Width / spread
Approximately 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in)
Flower color
White
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Trifoliate leaves on bushy branches
Growth rate
Fast
Growth habit
Upright compact bush habit requiring no trellis
Fragrance
Fine mild flavour; crisp, juicy, tender pods after cooking
Bloom period
For 'Maxibel', each retained blossom can develop into a pod. Keep the root zone evenly moist during bloom. 'Maxibel' filet bush bean forms self-fertile flowers before its pods enlarge. Watch new flowers for recovery after stressful weather. For Filet bush bean, its flowering stems can drop blossoms during drought or heat. Avoid spraying while beneficial insects are working. Visiting insects may supplement 'Maxibel''s normal self-pollination. Water at soil level while flowers remain open. For 'Maxibel' filet bush bean, avoid disturbing roots while blossoms become young pods. Pick mature pods to help Filet bush bean continue flowering.
Fruiting
Pollinated flowers develop into straight, round, dark-green, very slender pods approximately 18 cm long. Pick while smooth, firm, and snappy before seeds form bumps. Harvesting every day or two maintains the fine filet grade and encourages new blossoms. Cool pods promptly and use them fresh, or blanch before freezing. Remove overlooked coarse pods so the plant continues directing energy toward tender production. Resistance to anthracnose and bean common mosaic virus supports reliability but does not make plants immune.
Days to maturity
Approximately 50 to 55 days
Harvest
Begin checking at approximately 50 days and expect first harvest in 50–55 days. Pick pods when approximately 18 cm long, dark green, smooth, firm, and snappy before seeds form bumps. Harvest every day or two because a filet pod quickly loses delicacy when oversized. Support the branch while picking to protect new blossoms. Refrigerate unwashed pods in a perforated bag and use within five to seven days, or blanch before freezing.
Garden associations
In goodcompany.
Companion plants
Maxibel suits a dedicated low bean row with nearby crops that will not flop over its slender pods. Radishes or young lettuce can occupy an adjacent early strip if they are harvested before the bean foliage expands. Leave enough room for repeated picking from both sides where practical. Avoid placing a sprawling squash directly beside the row, since its leaves can conceal the beans. The benefit of this arrangement is accessible space and staggered harvests, not a guaranteed change in flavour or pest resistance from a particular companion.
Plants to avoid
Mainly avoid short rotation with beans and peas; absolute incompatibility with Alliums is not sufficiently confirmed
Recipe idea
From the gardento your plate.
Edible parts
Immature pods cooked; mature dry beans only after thorough cooking
'Maxibel' bean in the kitchen. Lemony green beans — Trim 500 g slender beans and bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook until bright green and just tender, checking at four minutes and continuing only as needed. Drain, then transfer briefly to cold water so the beans stay crisp. Warm 15 mL olive oil in a skillet with one minced shallot and 2 mL crushed fennel seed. Add the drained beans and toss for one minute. Remove from the heat, add 15 mL lemon juice, grated zest, black pepper, and a small pinch of salt. Finish with chopped parsley and toasted breadcrumbs for crunch. Serve warm beside fish or tofu, or cool and fold through a potato salad. Do not eat the pods raw; cooking improves texture and suitability for eating. Wash fresh beans before trimming and discard any that are slimy, mouldy, or badly damaged. Refrigerate cooked leftovers within two hours in a clean covered container and use a fresh utensil when serving them again.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions,answered.
Is 'Maxibel' a bush or pole bean?
It is an upright filet bush bean approximately 50–60 cm tall. It does not form the long twining stems of a pole bean and therefore needs no trellis. In a very windy site or container, a small circular support may simply prevent loaded branches from bending. Still leave enough space for foliage to dry quickly after rain and long pods to remain easy to see. Harvest while supporting branches with one hand and chill pods promptly. A clear path simplifies base watering, airflow, and frequent picking without compacting soil. Check any light support after strong wind and loosen ties as stems thicken.
At what stage should 'Maxibel' pods be picked?
Pick at approximately 18 cm while pods remain very slender, smooth, dark green, and snappy. Seeds should remain barely visible through the wall. Check every day or two beginning around 50 days because filet grade becomes coarser when pods remain too long. Regular picking improves texture and encourages new blossoms; also remove missed pods so the plant does not devote all its energy to seed. Pick in the morning after dew dries, keep the basket shaded, and refrigerate promptly. Use slightly marked pods first and discard every slimy, mouldy, or abnormal-smelling portion. Always cook beans before serving and clean utensils after preparation.
Which diseases does 'Maxibel' resist?
'Maxibel' has resistance to anthracnose and bean common mosaic virus, including race 1. This varietal protection may reduce risk or severity under some conditions without making plants immune. Rotate for three to four years, avoid working wet foliage, water at soil level, and remove infected debris. Do not assume resistance to other diseases. Clean tools before moving from a diseased row to a healthy one, keep plants airy, and avoid handling foliage after rain. Continue monitoring every succession because diseases outside the listed resistance package may still appear. Remove infected residue rather than composting it, and record symptoms for comparison next season.
How can 'Maxibel' harvest be extended?
Sow small amounts every two or three weeks while enough warm weather remains before frost. Once production begins, inspect plants every day or two and remove all ready pods because ripening seed slows new blossom formation. Maintain even moisture during flowering, mulch after soil warms, and avoid excessive nitrogen. As the first row declines, the next gradually takes over. Label successive sowings with their date so you know which row should produce next. Remove badly diseased plants promptly and avoid letting missed pods mature when the main goal is a long tender harvest. Keep later rows evenly watered during bloom and harvest promptly after each picking.
Can 'Maxibel' be grown in a container?
Yes. Use a stable container at least 30 cm deep with several drainage holes and allow approximately 20–25 cm of usable diameter per plant. Fill it with light potting mix enriched with mature compost, place it in full sun, and direct-sow approximately 2.5–3 cm deep. Containers dry faster than garden beds, so check them daily during flowering and pod formation, then water when the top few centimetres begin drying. Always empty the saucer after watering. Rotate the container weekly when light is uneven, add light mulch after the mix warms, and pick pods every day or two. A small stake ring may support heavily loaded branches without training this bush bean as a climbing plant.
Wildlife and pets
Life,around your plants.
Supporting wildlife
Maxibel flowers are largely self-pollinating; a crop of slender pods does not depend on attracting a particular bee species. For a more insect-friendly vegetable plot, provide flowers nearby through the season. Keep those plantings outside the bean row so their foliage does not make the low pods harder to inspect and pick.
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