The Broad Windsor fava bean, scientifically known as Vicia faba, is a prominent member of the legume family and has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Originating in the Mediterranean region and known for its versatility and unique taste, it has gained popularity worldwide. These beans are a type of broad bean, characterized by their large, flat, and slightly curved pods. The plant itself can reach a height of 3 to 4 feet and typically takes around 80 to 90 days to mature. In terms of appearance, Broad Windsor fava beans have large, broad pods that encase the beans. The pods are typically 6 to 8 inches long and are a vibrant green color. The beans themselves are quite large and have a distinctive earthy and nutty flavor, making them a favorite in various culinary dishes. When it comes to growing conditions, these beans thrive in cool weather and are often planted in early spring or late summer. They require well-drained soil and benefit from full sun exposure. Broad Windsor fava beans are known for their disease resistance, particularly against common bean diseases such as rust and aphids. On average, they can yield approximately 1,000 to 1,200 pounds per acre when properly cultivated with adequate spacing between plants, typically about 6 to 8 inches apart. Their versatility in both taste and growth conditions makes them a valuable addition to any garden or farm.
The Light Red Kidney Bean is a popular kidney bean that has mild bean flavor! Excellent for chili, bean salads, and soups. Exceptional culinary quality, with silky texture and thin skin. Plants grow to medium size that are sturdy and widely adapted. Produce well anywhere in the United States.
The Vermont Cranberry Shell bean is an incredible bean variety that can be used as a snap, shell or dry bean. Cranberry Shell stores exceptionally well. Maroon colored beans are decorated with darker red, cranberry markings. This variety dates back to the 1800s and is well-suited to short-season, cool summer climates.
The great northern bean is an heirloom bean variety that is perfect for drying and using in different baked dishes. Semi-vining, 24 inch plants yield a prolific quantity of flat, 5 inch pods holding 5 to 6, large white beans.
Navy beans, scientifically known as Phaseolus vulgaris, are small, oval-shaped beans that are a popular and versatile member of the legume family. They are often referred to as navy beans due to their association with the United States Navy, where they were a staple food for sailors in the 19th century. These beans have a rich history dating back to ancient times when they were cultivated by indigenous peoples in the Americas. They were later introduced to Europe by Spanish explorers and became an essential part of global cuisine. Navy beans have a mild, nutty flavor and a smooth, creamy texture when cooked. They are known for their ability to absorb the flavors of the ingredients they are cooked with, making them a favorite in soups, stews, and baked bean dishes. These beans are typically small, about half an inch in length, and are usually white or off-white in color, although there are variations with speckled or colored coats. In terms of plant characteristics, navy bean plants are relatively compact, reaching a height of about 18 to 24 inches. They have a bushy growth habit and produce small, white or lavender flowers before developing pods that contain the beans. Navy beans typically take around 80 to 90 days to reach maturity, making them a relatively quick-growing crop. They thrive in well-drained soil with good moisture retention and prefer full sun for optimal growth. Adequate spacing and support may be needed to ensure healthy plant development, and they are generally grown as annuals in most regions.
The Pinto bean is a great tasting bean, very popular in many Mexican dishes! The Pinto bean plant is a half-runner type that produces 20 inch plants with light tan seeds with brown speckles. Eat young when green for delicious flavor. Great bean for using for refried beans.
Dark Red Kidney beans are one of the most widely used beans in North America! Dark Red Kidney is a bush variety of dried bean. Each pod contains 5 large, red kidney shaped beans. If rain threatens before your beans are totally dry, pull the whole plant up, hang upside down in your barn/garage to let them finish drying. Once dry, these beans will store for a long time! This bean is often used in Mexican food.A perfect winter food full of protein straight from your own garden.
