Scientific Name
Phaseolus vulgaris (Dwarf variety)
Crop Culture
French Bean Dwarf, also known as bush bean, is a compact variety ideal for small gardens or container growing. They prefer full sun and well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. Enrich the soil with compost or a well-balanced fertilizer before planting.
Bush beans do not require staking or trellising, making them easier to manage than pole bean varieties. Plant after the last frost when the soil has warmed up, as beans are sensitive to cold temperatures.
Planting
Direct sow seeds 1 inch deep, spacing them 2-3 inches apart in rows 18-24 inches apart. Thin seedlings to 4-6 inches apart if necessary. Bush beans do not typically require thinning. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Grow Guides
For detailed growing instructions and variety selection, please refer to our comprehensive French Bean Dwarf grow guide.
Diseases, Insects, and Weeds
Common pests include bean beetles and aphids. Floating row covers can protect plants from pests. Regular monitoring and treatment with organic or chemical controls can manage infestations. Diseases like bean blight and rust can be minimized with proper spacing and crop rotation.
Harvesting
Harvest beans when they are firm, crisp, and fully developed but before the seeds inside become too large. Pick beans regularly to encourage continuous production. Bush beans typically produce all their fruit over a few weeks.
Storage and Preservation
French Bean Dwarf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, blanch and freeze the beans. They can also be pickled or canned.