Organic 'Kentucky Wonder' climbing bean
identification
description
Organic 'Kentucky Wonder' climbing bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) from McKenzie seed company, a vigorous heirloom bean with long, flavourful pods
The organic 'Kentucky Wonder' climbing bean is an iconic heirloom variety , prized for generations for its rich flavor , meaty texture , and exceptional yield . Developed from a line combining the qualities of the original Kentucky Wonder and the Blue Lake type, it produces long, dark green pods measuring 20 to 23 cm , straight and full, perfect for fresh eating, cooking, or drying.
The plants develop vigorous, tall vines , reaching approximately 2 meters in height , requiring sturdy support such as a trellis, fence, or stakes. This vertical growth allows for excellent air circulation, facilitates harvesting, and optimizes garden space. The variety also exhibits good heat tolerance , resistance to Common Bean Mosaic Virus (BCMV), and appreciable rust tolerance , making it a reliable choice for home vegetable gardens.
Spread/Habit: Climbing, vigorous vine
Plant height: Approximately 2 m
Seed producer: McKenzie
Seed type: Heirloom
Physical seed type: Organic seeds
Quantity per packet: Approximately 25 to 30 seeds
Special features: Very productive, long pods, good disease tolerance
Pod color: Dark green
Texture/flavor: Tender and meaty flesh, pronounced flavor
Tolerance: Heat, rust
Resistance: BCMV (common bean mosaic virus)
Farming method
The 'Kentucky Wonder' bean is sown directly outdoors once all risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to 15–29 °C . Sow the seeds 2.5 cm deep , spacing the plants approximately 15 cm apart, with 10 cm between seeds to encourage vigorous growth without excessive competition.
Install the growing medium immediately after sowing to prevent damage to the roots later. This variety prefers rich, loose, and well-drained soil, as well as full sun . Regular watering, with 2.5 to 5 cm of water per week , is essential, especially during flowering and pod formation.
Beneficial associations include beetroot, corn, squash, strawberry, sunflower, lovage, rosemary and nasturtiums , the latter helping to repel certain harmful insects and attract pollinators.
Harvesting and maintenance
Harvesting typically begins 65 to 70 days after sowing . Pick the young, bright green pods before the seeds inside become too large, to maintain a tender texture and optimal flavor. Frequent harvesting encourages the continuous production of new pods.
Beans can be eaten fresh, blanched and then frozen, or left to fully mature for drying . Avoid excessive nitrogen, which promotes foliage growth at the expense of pods.
Usage ideas
The pods of the 'Kentucky Wonder' are excellent sautéed quickly with garlic and olive oil , steamed, added to stews, or simply blanched as a side dish. Their meaty flesh and lingering flavor make them a top-quality green bean , equally delicious fresh or preserved.
The organic 'Kentucky Wonder' climbing bean from seed producer McKenzie is a reliable choice for the vegetable garden , combining high yield, robustness and taste quality , ideal for gardeners wishing to produce large quantities of tasty beans throughout the season.
