The Slenderette Bean is not a crop that the casual farmer or consumer knows by this name, but instead we all commonly call it the "green bean". It is a no-string, slender, gourmet kind of bean. It is oftentimes used in French cuisine for its' crunch and full flavor.
Origin:
Columbus and other European explorers introduced this variety of Bush Bean to their countries, eventually spreading to the rest of Europe and later on, all over the world. Slenderette was developed in the 1980s by Stavely and Steinke of Rutgers University. They bred it to withstand disease such as rust.
Height and Characteristics:
Slenderette Beans typically grow up to 18-20 inches. These beans are fast maturing and typically germinate within 6-10 days. Their full maturity happens in 55-60 days. The bean often times is an unexpected surprise whenever the pods are opened due to its' white coloring. The name slenderette stems from its' outwards slim qualities.
General Information
The Slenderette bean should become a staple in your local garden. They will add a fresh, crunch to your variety of fresh crops! As you come to the end of your growing season, and you still want to save the rest of your crop, just follow this simple advice:
- Let the beans dry completely on the vine (they will probably be light brown in color)
- Shake the pod, and make sure you hear the beans rattling inside
- Remove the seeds that are left in the pod and let them dry completely
- After you have done this, store the beans in a cool, dry place and enjoy for up to a year!
Sowing The Seed
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
Slenderette 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. Slenderette will produce excellent yields of slender, stringless pods that can be harvested in 55 days.
Harvesting Slenderette Beans
The long, straight pods the beans come in typically are 5 inches long and are dark green in color. Opening the pod formulates in a snapping sound producing a culmination of delicious beans. After the germination period, expect your beans in about 10 weeks. It is important to not pick the pods prior to them being the thickness of a pen. After you have harvested the pods, preserve them the same day in order to maintain the freshest taste.
