Five Succotash Beans on a white background.
Succotash Beans in pods and loose arranged on a grey slate background.
Succotash Beans in dried and fresh pods
Close-up Succotash Beans
Five Succotash Beans on a white background.
Succotash Beans in pods and loose arranged on a grey slate background.
Succotash Beans in dried and fresh pods
Close-up Succotash Beans

Bean Seeds,
Succotash

4.525 ReviewsSKU: #BN136Min. seed count: 40
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Description

(Phaseolus vulgaris) Pole bean. A rare, ancient bean from the Narragansett Indian tribe of Rhode Island. This uniquely shaped, dime-sized bean closely resembles a kernel of corn. This variety was used for succotash—the iconic indigenous northeastern dish of corn and beans that historians believe was served at the first Thanksgiving. This bean is ideal for the north, particularly on the coast.

Growing Tips: Succotash beans prefer well-drained soil rich in organic matter, with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Full sun is essential for the best growth. They thrive in warm, sunny conditions and well-drained soil, making them ideal for the north, particularly on the coast.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Phaseolus vulgaris
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Pole
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
5–8
Days to Maturity
80–95
Planting Depth
½–1 in.
Plant Spacing
6–10 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–80°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Plant Succotash beans after the last frost date when the soil has warmed up to at least 60 F. The best growing temperature is 70-80 F. Typically, this is in mid to late spring. These beans have a long growing season, requiring about 80-95 days to mature, so timely planting is crucial​. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Soak seeds overnight. Directly sow the seeds 1/2 to 1 inch deep with rows spaced about 24 inches apart. Space the plants 6 to 10 inches apart. Provide a trellis or other support as these are climbing beans and need space to grow vertically.

How to Grow

Ensure the plants get full sun, at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during flowering and pod development. Avoid overhead watering to minimize disease risks. Succotash beans fix their own nitrogen, so excessive fertilization is not necessary. Use a balanced fertilizer if needed​.

How to Save Seeds

  • 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 Succotash beans take to mature?

Succotash beans typically take 80 to 95 days to mature, depending on growing conditions.

Can Succotash beans be grown in containers?

While they can be grown in containers, ensure you have a large enough pot and adequate support for the climbing vines.

How much water do Succotash beans need?

Maintain consistent moisture in the soil without waterlogging. Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods.

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