Here in the Kids Seed Co. garden, it’s bean season so we thought we’d share a bit about growing haricots verts. Our heirloom French variety has been a customer-favorite for many years!
Origin: The parent seed of our haricots verts came from the garden of a neighbor of the kids’ grandparents in France. When dried, the beans are a beautiful mottled brown color. Their neighbor near the village of Le Broc, near Nice, has saved the seeds of this slender and delicious bean for generations.
Haricots verts, French for “green beans,” are a slender, tender variety of snap beans prized for their crisp texture and delicate flavor. Unlike standard green beans, haricots verts are harvested young, resulting in a thinner, more flavorful pod that’s a favorite in gourmet dishes. Growing haricots verts in your garden is rewarding and straightforward, provided you understand their needs. In this blog post, we’ll explore what makes haricots verts special, how to grow them successfully, and tips for a bountiful harvest.
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Why Grow Haricots Verts?
Haricots verts (Phaseolus vulgaris) are not only delicious but also a great addition to any garden. Their slim pods, typically 4-6 inches long, have a refined taste that elevates salads, stir-fries, and side dishes. They’re packed with vitamins A, C, and K, plus fiber, making them a nutritious choice. Homegrown haricots verts are fresher and more flavorful than store-bought, and their compact, bushy plants fit well in small gardens or containers.
How to Grow Haricots Verts
1. Timing and Climate
Haricots verts thrive in warm weather and need soil temperatures of at least 60°F (15°C), with 70-80°F (21-27°C) being ideal. Plant after the last frost in spring, typically late April to early June in most regions. In warmer climates, a second planting in late summer can yield a fall crop.
2. Site Selection and Soil Preparation
• Sunlight: Choose a spot with full sun (6-8 hours daily).
• Soil: Haricots verts prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8. Work in compost or aged manure before planting to boost organic matter. Avoid heavy clay soils, as they can impede root growth.
• Spacing: For bush varieties, space seeds 2-4 inches apart in rows 18-24 inches apart. For pole varieties, plant seeds 4-6 inches apart at the base of a trellis or teepee.
3. Planting
• Direct Sowing: Sow seeds 1 inch deep directly in the garden, as beans don’t transplant well. Water gently after planting to settle the soil.
• Support for Pole Beans: Install a trellis, fence, or stakes at planting time to avoid disturbing roots later. Pole beans climb via twining, so ensure supports are sturdy.
4. Watering and Care
• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.
• Mulching: Apply a 2-inch layer of straw or shredded bark around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Fertilizing: Beans fix nitrogen in the soil, so they need minimal fertilizer. A balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer at planting is usually sufficient. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which promote leafy growth over pods.
5. Pest and Disease Management
• Pests: Watch for aphids, bean beetles, and spider mites. Hand-pick beetles, use insecticidal soap for aphids, or introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs.
• Diseases: Common issues include powdery mildew and bacterial blight. Ensure good air circulation, avoid wet foliage, and rotate crops yearly to prevent soil-borne diseases.
• Tip: Choose disease-resistant varieties and remove plant debris at season’s end to reduce risks.
6. Harvesting
Haricots verts are ready to harvest when pods are 4-6 inches long, slender, and crisp—typically 50-60 days after planting. The pods should snap easily and have small, undeveloped seeds inside. Harvest every 1-2 days to encourage continuous production. Use scissors or pinch pods off to avoid damaging plants.
• Pro Tip: Pick in the morning when pods are crisp and full of moisture. Overmature pods become tough and stringy, so regular harvesting is key.
7. Extending the Season
For a longer harvest, practice succession planting by sowing new seeds every 2-3 weeks until mid-summer. In cooler climates, use row covers to protect late-season crops from early frosts.
Cooking with Haricots Verts
Freshly harvested haricots verts shine in simple preparations:
• Blanch and Sauté: Boil for 2-3 minutes, shock in ice water, then sauté with garlic and olive oil.
• Salads: Toss blanched haricots verts with cherry tomatoes, feta, and vinaigrette.
• Roasting: Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 425°F for 15 minutes for a caramelized flavor.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
• Yellowing Leaves: Often due to overwatering or nutrient deficiency. Check soil moisture and consider a light fertilizer application.
• Poor Pod Set: Caused by high temperatures (above 85°F) or inconsistent watering. Provide shade during heatwaves and maintain even moisture.
• Stunted Growth: Compacted soil or cold temperatures may be the culprit. Ensure proper soil preparation and wait for warm weather to plant.
Final Thoughts
Growing haricots verts is a delightful way to bring gourmet flavor to your garden and table. With their compact growth, quick maturity, and minimal care requirements, they’re perfect for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike. By providing sunny conditions, well-drained soil, and regular harvesting, you’ll enjoy a steady supply of these elegant beans all season long.