Bean Seeds,
Rattlesnake Pole

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Description

(Phaseolus vulgaris) Pole bean. This bean is easy to grow and produces lots of green pods with purple streaks. It has a good flavor and is very tender. The speckled seeds are popular in soup. This variety does well in hot, humid areas.

Growing Tips: Rattlesnake pole beans are known for their resilience and prolific production. They thrive best in warm weather with full sun and well-drained soil. The ideal soil temperature for planting is between 70-80 F. Adding compost before planting can enhance soil fertility and water retention. Regular watering is crucial, especially during flowering and pod formation. Provide support like a trellis or teepee, as these beans are climbers and can grow up to 10 feet tall.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Phaseolus vulgaris
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Pole
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
5–8
Days to Maturity
65
Planting Depth
½–1 in.
Plant Spacing
6–10 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–80°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Plant Rattlesnake pole beans after the last frost date when the soil has warmed to at least 60 F. In most regions, this means late spring. If you’re not sure how to find your area's first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Soak seeds overnight. Sow seeds directly in the garden about 1/2 to 1 inch deep and 6 to 10 inches apart. Space rows 18 to 24 inches apart. Sprouts appear in 5 to 8 days. If planting in a trench, fill it with compost before covering with soil. Ensure supports are in place before planting to avoid disturbing seedlings later​.

How to Grow

Rattlesnake pole beans require consistent watering, especially during hot and dry periods. Water deeply at least once a week, increasing to twice a week in extremely hot weather. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of disease. Pinch out the growing tips when vines reach the top of their supports to encourage bushier growth and more pods. Regular harvesting will promote continued production throughout the growing season​.

How to Save Seeds

  • 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

What are Rattlesnake pole beans?

Rattlesnake pole beans are an heirloom variety known for their green pods with purple streaks and speckled seeds. They are versatile, used as snap beans when young or as dried beans when mature.

What's the best fertilizer for Rattlesnake beans?

These beans generally do not require heavy fertilization. If needed, use an organic fertilizer low in nitrogen to avoid excessive foliage growth at the expense of pod production.

Can Rattlesnake pole beans be grown in containers?

While pole beans can be grown in containers, they require a very deep container and adequate support, making them less ideal compared to bush beans.

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