The Blue Lake Bush Bean is a variety of snap bean first cultivated in the early 1900's as a canning bean. Since then, it has been established as a classic and versatile favorite among growers and consumers, whether used fresh, for freezing, or for canning purposes.
Plant Height and Growth Habit
The Blue Lake Bush Bean grows to be approximately 18 - 24 inches tall, and 12 - 24 inches wide. It is a medium-sized bush that produces a reliable and heavy yield.
Plant Characteristics
The Blue Lake Bush Bean is a stringless snap bean. The pod is green, while the beans are white. It is a crisp, tender, and tasty bean that is versatile in its uses. The Blue Lake Bush Bean can be used fresh, frozen, or canned. The variety of uses coupled with the excellent flavor makes the Blue Lake Bush Bean a longstanding favorite among gardeners. The Blue Lake Bush Bean typically yields a pod approximately 6.5 inches in size.
Sowing The Seeds
Beans are not fond of being transplanted and are best established directly outdoors, when the weather is warm and all danger of frost has passed. If they are started indoors, the use of peat pots may be beneficial to prevent root shock when transplanting. Work through your sowing area to remove all unwanted plant life and weeds. Sow the seeds at a depth of 1” under topsoil.
Growing Conditions
Beans will require an area of full sunlight for the majority of the day. The plants will thrive in temperatures of at least 65F and require a soil that is fertile and rich in organic matter. You must also make sure that your sowing medium is well drained as well. Adding a light compost to any areas containing hard, compact soil will improve your overall drainage. Water the seeds daily until germination occurs.
Germination & Growth
Blue Lake Bush Beans typically germinate within a good 7 to 21 days after sowing. The plants will reach a mature height of roughly 18 to 24 inches tall and can spread about 12 to 24 inches wide. They can be spaced roughly 12 to 18 inches apart from one another, in rows that are spaced 24 inches apart.
Harvesting Bush Beans
On average, the Blue Lake Bush Bean matures in approximately 58 days, though harvest may begin as early as 48 days, and may continue as late as 65 days. The harvest of the Blue Lake Bush Bean is typically bountiful, and picking the beans frequently during the harvest period may result in a heavier yield. Harvesting is recommended when the pods reach 6.5 inches in size, and while the pods are still tender.
