Tendergreen is a classic heirloom bush bean introduced in 1925. It produces high yields of straight, round, meaty, stringless pods with outstanding flavor and a tender texture. The pods stay tender and delicious even when slightly mature. This variety is notably heat-tolerant, highly disease-resistant (especially to bean mosaic virus and powdery mildew), and an excellent choice for shorter growing seasons.
Growing Tips Planting Time
- Direct sow after all danger of frost has passed and soil temperature reaches at least 60°F. Beans are very sensitive to cold.
- In cool climates, warm the soil with black plastic or row covers for a week before planting.
Spacing
- Sow seeds 1 inch deep and 2–4 inches apart in rows 18–24 inches apart.
- Thin to 4–6 inches apart when seedlings have their first true leaves.
Soil & Fertility
- Prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil (pH 6.0–6.8).
- Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers; excess nitrogen causes lush foliage but fewer beans. Inoculate seeds with rhizobium bacteria for better nitrogen fixation (optional but helpful).
Watering
- Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during flowering and pod set.
- Water at the base to prevent fungal issues; overhead watering can spread disease.
Sun & Heat
- Full sun (6–8+ hours).
- Excellent heat tolerance makes it ideal for southern and hot-summer gardens.
Harvesting
- Begin picking when pods are pencil-thick and before seeds inside start to bulge (usually 5–6 inches long).
- Harvest every 2–3 days to keep plants producing; letting pods mature slows new flower formation.
- Use two hands when picking (hold the stem with one hand) to avoid damaging the plant.
Pests & Diseases
- Resistant to common bean mosaic virus and powdery mildew.
- Watch for Mexican bean beetles, aphids, or leafhoppers; hand-pick or use row covers early in the season.
Sold as a 6-pack.
BEANS, Tendergreen (Bush)
$6.25Price
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