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Bean Seeds, 1500 Year Old Cave
Description
(Phaseolus vulgaris) Pole bean. This amazing native bean was reputedly found in a cave in New Mexico, in a clay pot sealed with pitch. When carbon dated, the tests showed it to be 1,500 years old! Long vines climb to 10 feet and produce tasty pods. Beans are large and kidney-shaped, white with maroon mottling. Very rare collector’s bean.
- 95-110 days to maturity
- Full sun
- Sprouts in 5-8 days
- Seed Depth: 1/2" to 1"
- Ideal Temperature: 70-80 F
- Plant Spacing: 6-10"
- Frost Hardy: No
Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs
Growing Tips
For optimal growth, ensure the beans are planted in well-drained, light soil and kept consistently moist, especially during flowering periods. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen to prevent excessive foliage and delayed pod development​.
When to Grow
Plant the 1500-Year-Old Cave beans outdoors after the last frost, when soil temperatures are consistently above 60 F. This typically corresponds to late spring to early summer, depending on your USDA hardiness zone. It isn’t frost-hardy and prefers 70-80 F.
How to Sow and Plant
Preparation: Soak seeds overnight before planting to encourage germination.
Planting: Sow seeds about 1/2 to 1 inch deep in the soil. Space the plants 6-10 inches apart, and use a trellis or pole for support. For row planting, maintain a distance of 60 cm (24 inches) between rows.
Conditions: Ensure the planting site is in full sun and the soil is well-drained. Sprouts usually appear in 5-8 days.
How to Grow
Use a trellis or poles to support the climbing vines, which can reach heights of up to 10 feet. Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during the flowering period, but avoid overwatering. For fresh beans, harvest when pods are young and tender. For dry beans, allow the pods to mature fully on the vine before picking. Harvest frequently to keep plants productive.
How to Save
- Common beans do not easily cross pollinate and can be grown close to one another, making them the ideal seed-saving project for beginners.
- Save seeds from the best-looking, best-tasting, and most vigorous beans.
- Leave pods on the plant to dry. Pull the plants and shake them vigorously into a bag to release the beans from the pods (same as you would for using them as dried beans).
- Store in a cool, dry place for the winter (a glass jar in the refrigerator works well!).
FAQ
Can I grow 1500-Year-Old Cave beans in containers?
Yes, provided you use a large container with a support structure such as a trellis or poles, and ensure the soil remains well-drained and consistently moist​.
How long does it take for 1500-Year-Old Cave beans to mature?
The beans typically take about 95-110 days to mature.
How do I get better germination?
Ensure soil temperatures are consistently above 60°F during planting, as cooler temperatures can hinder germination. Additionally, soaking the seeds before planting can improve germination rates.
Are these 1500-Year-Old Cave beans suitable for all climates?
While adaptable, the 1500-Year-Old Cave beans grow best in warm climates with plenty of sunshine. In cooler climates, starting seeds indoors before transplanting outdoors after the last frost can improve success rates.
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