How to Plant & Grow Rattlesnake Beans

The rattlesnake bean takes its name from the variegated coloring of the bean -- a medium brown with dark brown splotches. The pods are interesting in that they are green with purple streaks which disappear when the bean is cooked in the shell. Closely related to the pinto bean, the dry rattlesnake bean can be prepared in much the same manner and provides a nutty kick to soups and stews. Plant the rattlesnake beans in late spring when the temperature has warmed to at least 65 degrees Fahrenheit.

Shovel or spade
Coarse sand
Fertilizer
Teepee or other support structure

Instructions

- 1
  Choose the gardening location with care. Rattlesnake beans require all-day sun and well-drained soil.
- 2
  Amend heavy soil with a 3-inch layer of sand mixed into the top 6 inches of the existing soil.
- 3
  Add 1 lb. of 5-10-10 fertilizer per 00 square feet of garden to the planting soil and mix it well into the top 6 inches of soil.
- 4
  Water the bed until the top 6 inches of soil is moist.
- 5
  Install the rattlesnake bean plants' support structure.
- 6
  Create small hills or mounds of soil in rows at the base of the support poles. Push three to four rattlesnake bean seeds 1 inch deep into each hill and firm the soil over them. The beans should be laying on their side when planted. The rattlesnake beans should germinate within two weeks. Allow the soil to dry to 1 inch deep during this time to avoid cracking the beans.
- 7
  Thin out the weakest of the plants, when they reach 4 inches in height, allowing three plants per pole. The remaining plants should be 4 to 6 inches apart.
- 8
  Check the moisture level of the soil before you water. Stick your finger 4 inches deep and if it comes out dry, water. Drip irrigation or a soaker hose delivers the water slowly and deeply, which is the ideal way to water the rattlesnake beans.
- 9
  Harvest the rattlesnake beans when they are 6 to 7 inches long. You can leave them on the plant longer for dried beans.

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