Cherokee Trail of Tears beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), also known as Cherokee Black, are more than just a garden crop—they’re a living testament to the strength and perseverance of the Cherokee people. Carried by Cherokee ancestors during the forced relocation known as the Trail of Tears in 1838–1839, these beans symbolize survival through unimaginable hardship. With their striking black seeds, vibrant purple-tinged pods, and versatility as both snap and dry beans, they’re a rewarding addition to any garden. This guide will walk you through how to grow these heirloom beans and honor their rich history.
This bean has been a favorite variety for many of our Kids Seed Co. customers and here’s the origin of the seeds in our catalog. ⬇️
Origin: The parent seed of our Cherokee beans came from the garden of a friend who lives on the Cherokee Reservation in Jackson County, NC. She is a member of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee and graciously gave us seeds that her family has saved for many generations.
The Story Behind Cherokee Trail of Tears Beans
The Cherokee Trail of Tears beans are named for the tragic forced march of the Cherokee Nation from their homelands in the southeastern United States to Oklahoma, a journey that claimed over 4,000 lives due to cold, disease, and starvation. These beans were carried by the Cherokee, preserving a piece of their culture through generations. Donated to the Seed Savers Exchange in 1977 by Dr. John Wyche, a Cherokee descendant, this variety has become a symbol of resilience and is recognized on Slow Food USA’s Ark of Taste for its cultural and culinary significance.
In the garden, these pole beans produce vigorous vines up to 8–10 feet tall, adorned with light purple flowers and 6-inch green pods with purple overlays. The shiny jet-black seeds are perfect for drying, while young pods can be eaten fresh as snap beans. Their rich flavor shines in soups, stews, and chili, making them a staple for both history buffs and food enthusiasts.
Getting Started: Planting Cherokee Trail of Tears Beans
1. Timing and Location
Cherokee Trail of Tears beans are warm-season crops that thrive in full sun, requiring 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Plant them after the last frost when soil temperatures reach at least 60°F (15°C), ideally 75–80°F (24–27°C) for optimal germination. In most regions, this is late spring to early summer (March–April or August–September in North Florida). They’re suited for USDA zones 3–10 but prefer warmer climates.
Choose a sunny spot with well-drained, fertile soil and a pH of 6.0–7.0. These beans are sensitive to frost, and cold soil can cause seeds to rot.
2. Preparing the Soil
Incorporate compost or aged manure into the soil to boost fertility and water retention. Cherokee Trail of Tears beans fix nitrogen, so avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can lead to lush foliage but fewer pods. A balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at planting is sufficient. Mulching with organic matter helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
3. Sowing Seeds
Soak seeds in water for 12–24 hours to enhance germination, which typically takes 7–14 days. Sow seeds 1–2 inches deep, spacing them 3–4 inches apart in rows 2–3 feet apart, or in clusters around a support structure. Thin seedlings to 6–8 inches apart for optimal growth.
4. Providing Support
As pole beans, Cherokee Trail of Tears are vigorous climbers, reaching 8–10 feet or more. Install a sturdy trellis, fence, or teepee at planting time to support their vines. Bamboo poles, wire arches, or even corn stalks (as in the traditional Three Sisters method with corn and squash) work well. Ensure the structure can handle the weight of mature plants.
Caring for Cherokee Trail of Tears Beans
1. Watering
Maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during flowering and pod formation. Water lightly at planting, moderately at flowering, and heavily during harvest. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases, and ensure the soil isn’t waterlogged to protect roots.
2. Feeding
These beans require minimal fertilization if the soil is well-prepared. If growth seems slow, apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer or compost tea mid-season. Over-fertilizing can reduce pod production.
3. Pest and Disease Management
Cherokee Trail of Tears beans are resilient, with some resistance to pests like Japanese beetles. However, watch for aphids, bean beetles, or spider mites. Hand-pick pests or use insecticidal soap for infestations. To prevent mildew, common in humid climates, ensure good air circulation and avoid wet foliage.
Harvesting Cherokee Trail of Tears Beans
• Snap Beans: Harvest young pods when they’re 3–5 inches long, tender, and before seeds swell noticeably. Regular picking encourages more production. Pods are green with purple shading and can be steamed, roasted, or added to salads.
• Dry Beans: For dried beans, let pods mature on the vine until they turn brown and rattle (about 85–95 days). Harvest before pods split to avoid losing seeds. Shell the shiny black beans and store them in a cool, dry place.
• Seed Saving: Save seeds from the healthiest, most vigorous plants. Let pods dry fully, shell the beans, and store them in a glass jar in a cool, dry location. These beans don’t easily cross-pollinate, making them ideal for seed saving.
Tips for Success
• Three Sisters Planting: Grow Cherokee Trail of Tears beans with corn and squash, a traditional Native American method. Corn provides support, beans fix nitrogen, and squash suppresses weeds.
• Succession Planting: For continuous harvest, sow seeds every 2–3 weeks in spring and early summer.
• Container Gardening: If space is limited, grow in large (5-gallon) pots with a trellis, ensuring good drainage and full sun.
• Culinary Uses: Young pods are crisp and flavorful in stir-fries or lightly braised with garlic. Dried beans shine in black bean soup, chili, or burritos. Try mashing them into flour for traditional Cherokee bean bread.
Common Challenges and Solutions
• Low Germination: If seeds aren’t sprouting, ensure soil is warm (above 60°F) and try soaking seeds longer. Poor germination in Zone 9A may stem from overly wet or clay-heavy soil; improve drainage with compost.
• Spindly Plants: Small, weak plants may indicate insufficient sunlight or poor soil. Ensure 6–8 hours of sun and test soil for nutrients.
• Low Yields: In hot, humid climates, ensure consistent watering and trellis support to prevent stress. These beans tolerate heat but may drop blooms in extreme summer heat.
Why Grow Cherokee Trail of Tears Beans?
Beyond their delicious flavor and versatility, these beans carry profound cultural significance. Growing them connects you to Cherokee heritage and honors the resilience of those who carried these seeds through tragedy. They’re prolific, hardy, and adaptable, thriving even in challenging conditions like heat and humidity. Plus, their nutritional benefits—rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and antioxidants—make them a healthy addition to your diet.
Final Thoughts
Cherokee Trail of Tears beans are a gift from history, blending beauty, flavor, and purpose in the garden. With their vigorous vines, colorful pods, and storied past, they’re a meaningful crop for gardeners seeking to grow food with heart. Plant them with care, provide a sturdy trellis, and you’ll be rewarded with a bountiful harvest that nourishes both body and soul.
Seeds are available in our catalog at Kids Seed Co.
https://kidseedco.com/products/bean-cherokee-trail-of-tears-pole-bean
Happy gardening, and may these beans inspire you to cultivate resilience in your own life.