Phaseolus vulgaris 'Black Turtle'
vegetableSmall jet-black dried beans with creamy white interior and earthy flavor. A staple of Latin American, Caribbean, and Southwestern U.S. cuisine. Black beans are among the easiest dry beans to grow and are exceptionally high in nutrients. Compact bush plants that fit even smaller gardens.
Sun
full sun
Water
Every 3 days
Harvest
~100 days
Difficulty
easy
Lifecycle
annual
One season, then done
Spacing
4-6 in
Planting Depth
1-1.5 in
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Soil Type
Average, well-draining
Hardiness Zones
Zones 3 – 10
Grown as an annual — this range is its winter hardiness, but you can grow it for a single season in any zone.
When to Fertilize
Inoculate seeds with rhizobium; no nitrogen fertilizer needed
Fertilizer
Low-nitrogen compost worked in before planting only
Direct sow after last frost in warm soil. Plants grow as compact 18 to 24-inch bushes requiring no support. Keep moisture consistent during flowering and pod fill. For dry beans, allow pods to brown and dry on the plant. Harvest the whole plant and dry further in a well-ventilated shed before threshing. Can also be eaten as fresh green snap beans when very young.
Direct sow
Apr 29
Projected first harvest
Aug 7
Good neighbors that attract beneficial insects or deter pests
Proactive ways to stop trouble before it starts — tap a name with an arrow for its full guide
Row cover early; handpick; neem oil spray every 7 days
Introduce ladybugs; water spray; insecticidal soap
Use certified disease-free seed; avoid working in wet garden; good air circulation
Plant into warm soil above 60 F; avoid fresh manure at planting time
For dry beans: wait until pods are brown and papery and beans rattle inside. Harvest plants before heavy fall rains. Thresh by beating plants into a barrel or by foot, then winnow. Store dry beans in airtight containers in a cool dark location for up to 3 years. Must be cooked — never eat dry beans raw.
One of the most nutrient-dense beans: high in protein, folate, anthocyanins, iron, and magnesium. Excellent source of soluble fiber shown to reduce LDL cholesterol. High in antioxidants comparable to blueberries.
For educational and informational purposes only — HomeSown is not medical, health, or other professional advice. Always positively identify any plant before handling or eating it; some plants, and some parts of otherwise-edible plants, are toxic. Consult a qualified professional before consuming or otherwise using any plant, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a health condition.