A trio of Black Turtle Beans on a white background.
Black Turtle Beans with a ceramic turtle on a stone background.
Loose and in pods Black Turtle Beans arranged on a light grey background.
Black Turtle Beans with light pink pods arranged on a stone background.
Black Turtle Beans arranged with pods on a light background.
A trio of Black Turtle Beans on a white background.
Black Turtle Beans with a ceramic turtle on a stone background.
Loose and in pods Black Turtle Beans arranged on a light grey background.
Black Turtle Beans with light pink pods arranged on a stone background.
Black Turtle Beans arranged with pods on a light background.

Bean Seeds,
Black Turtle

4.416 ReviewsSKU: #BN169Min. seed count: 40
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Description

(Phaseolus vulgaris) Bush bean. Splendid dark purple-black bean widely grown throughout Latin America and known by numerous common names. The compact bush plants are very productive and yield reliably, even in the north! The rich flavor and meaty texture lend themselves to vegetarian chili and frijoles refritos. Due to the coloration, this variety offers the bonus of a high anthocyanin content, too! We offer a select northern hardy strain originally collected in a village in Mexico and grown for many years by the Doug Baty family of Dixon, Montana.

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.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Phaseolus vulgaris
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Bush
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–14
Days to Maturity
95
Planting Depth
½–1 in.
Plant Spacing
4 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–80°F
Frost Hardy
No

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​. 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 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 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 Black Turtle beans take to mature?

They typically take about 95 days to reach maturity.

Can Black Turtle beans be grown in containers?

Yes, the compact bush habit suits large containers of 5 gallons or more. Expect a modest harvest, since each dry bean plant yields only a small handful of seed.

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.

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