Taylor Horticultural Bush Bean

A traditional Italian heirloom bush bean prized for its early production, compact size, and ornamental beauty. With pods in a striking tan and reddish pink streak pattern, this variety stands out both in the garden and the kitchen. While best known as a dry bean for hearty soups and stews, the young pods are also tender and delicious when harvested early. The plants germinate reliably even in cooler soil, making this a great choice for early spring planting and northern climates.

Where Can You Grow Taylor Horticultural Bush Bean?
Well-suited for Zones 3–9, this variety thrives in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Ideal for smaller spaces, raised beds, and row planting.

History and Historical Uses
This variety has been cherished in Italian and North American gardens for generations, valued for its culinary versatility and reliable performance in cooler conditions. Its colourful pods and flavourful dry beans make it a kitchen staple and a heritage crop worth preserving.

Canadian Zone Information
Zones 8–9: Direct sow outdoors after last frost for continuous harvest.
Zones 5–7: Direct sow late spring or start indoors and transplant for earlier harvest.
Zones 3–4: Start indoors to extend season; transplant once risk of frost has passed.

How to Grow and Harvest Taylor Horticultural Bush Bean
Planting: Sow seeds 2.5cm (1in) deep, 8–10cm (3–4in) apart in rows 45cm (18in) apart.
Watering: Keep evenly moist during germination and flowering.
Harvesting: Pick young pods for fresh use or leave to fully mature and dry for shelling.
Maintenance: No staking required; mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply
Let Pods Mature: Allow pods to remain on the plant until dry and brown.
Harvest and Shell: Collect fully dried pods and shell beans out by hand.
Dry and Store: Further dry shelled beans and store in a cool, dry, dark place.
Store: Properly stored beans remain viable for 4–5 years.

Certified Organic By
Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)