How to Grow Brown Beans

Brown beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) reach maturity when fully dry on the vine. This gives them the distinction of being classified as a dry bean that requires cooking to make them edible. Brown bean plants stand approximately 24 inches tall, and the pods contain two to four beans. A warm-season crop, dry beans require a long growing season: 90 to 150 frost-free days to reach maturity. Plant the beans after all danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature is at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Trowel
Soil test
Mulch

Instructions

- 1
  Choose a location that receives full sun and has well-draining soil. Brown beans do not thrive well when planted in heavy clay soil. The beans grow best in soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.0.
- 2
  Perform a soil test. If the soil lacks phosphorous or potassium, supplement as necessary. Brown beans have the ability to fix nitrogen in the soil with their root system so they don't require nitrogen fertilizer applications.
- 3
  Dig a hole 1 inch deep. Place a bean in the hole and lightly cover with dirt.
- 4
  Space beans 4 inches apart in rows spaced 15 inches apart. Proper spacing helps promote air circulation around the plants, which prevents fungal diseases.
- 5
  Water the beans thoroughly. Keep the beans most but not water-logged to encourage germination.
- 6
  Apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch around the bean plants to help reduce weed growth and help prevent the beans from rotting if they touch the ground. Remove weeds as they sprout.
- 7
  Withhold water when the bean pods reach maturity to help them dry out for harvest.
- 8
  Harvest brown beans when the beans feel hard to the touch and the pods look brown. If you pinch the bean with your fingernails, it will not dent but will feel hard.

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