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
Topcrop 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. Topcrop will produce excellent yields of thick, 5 to 6 inch pods that can be harvested in 55 to 60 days.
Harvesting Topcrop Beans
These beans will be ready to harvest in just under two months, between 50 and 60 days. Often eaten right from the vine, these beans have delectable sweet flavoring and retain freshness for up to a week after picking! They have also been noted one of the best beans for freezing, making these an excellent choice when stocking up your veggie supplies!
If you're saving one of your plants as your host for additional seeding, you'll want to wait to pick these until near the end of your harvests, when her pods have begun to dry a little and shells have turned a gentle brown.