Bean Seeds, Black Turtle

star-filled
4.3
15 Reviews
Sku:
#BN169
Min. seed count:
40
$3.50

Description

(Phaseolus vulgaris) Bush bean. Splendid dark purple-black bean that is widely grown throughout Latin America and known by numerous common names. The flavor is rich and the texture is meaty—try these in vegetarian chili or as frijoles refritos in burritos. Due to the coloration, this variety offers the bonus of a high anthocyanin content, too! We offer a select northern hardy strain that has been grown for many years by the Doug Baty family of Dixon, Montana, but originally collected in a village in Mexico.  Find out more from our blog post “Breathtaking Black Turtle Bean!

  • 95 Days
  • Full Sun
  • Sprouts in 7-14 Days
  • Seed Depth: 1/2" to 1"
  • Ideal Temperature: 70-80 Degrees F
  • Plant Spacing: 4"
  • Frost Hardy: No

Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs

Growing Tips

Black Turtle beans, like other dry beans, thrive in full sun and well-drained, loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. They prefer warm temperatures and should be planted when the soil temperature is at least 60 F, ideally 70-80 F. For best results, consider using a nitrogen-fixing inoculant on the seeds before planting to enhance nitrogen availability in the soil​​.

When to Grow

Plant Black Turtle beans in spring after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to at least 60°F. These beans are sensitive to cold and do not transplant well, so direct sowing is recommended. For optimal growth, ensure they receive full sun every day​.

How to Sow and Plant

Soak the beans in water overnight before planting to improve germination. Sow seeds about 1/2 to 1 inch deep in the soil. Space the plants 4 inches apart. Black beans do not require heavy fertilization as they fix nitrogen themselves, but ensure the soil is rich in organic matter​.

How to Grow

Water the plants moderately, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Mulch can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. These are bush beans, therefore staking isn’t required. Regularly check for pests like aphids and bean beetles, and use appropriate methods to manage them, such as insecticidal soap or companion planting with flowers like marigolds​. Pick frequently to keep plants productive. Succession plant for prolonged harvest.

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

How long do Black Turtle beans take to mature?
They typically take about 95 days to reach maturity​.

Can Black Turtle beans be grown in containers?
They are not ideal for containers due to their growth habit and root structure​​.

When should I harvest Black Turtle beans?
Harvest when the pods are dry and brittle, usually towards the end of summer. If a hard frost is expected, harvest even if the pods are not fully dry​.

delivery
Fast & Free shipping. Seed Orders Shipped in 2-5 days from our seed store!
Bean Seeds, Black Turtle
star-filled
4.3
Customer reviews (15)

Similar Products