KING OF THE EARLY – EARLY & PRODUCTIVE DWARF BEAN

KING OF THE EARLY – EARLY & PRODUCTIVE BUSH BEAN (CERTIFIED ORGANIC)

A compact, robust, and ultra-early heirloom bush bean — perfect for northern climates, short seasons, and small spaces.

Description

King of the Early is an heirloom bush bean variety renowned for its reliable productivity and rapid maturity. The tender green pods can be eaten fresh, but this variety is especially prized for its flavorful and abundant dry beans. The plants are vigorous, disease-resistant, and well-suited for small gardens, raised beds, and large containers.

Ideal for gardeners seeking an early and consistent harvest, even in cool or coastal regions.

Where to grow King of the Early Bush Bean

Suited for zones 3 to 9, it prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Excellent for small gardens, raised beds, and containers. Particularly performs well in cool climates where early varieties are essential.

History & traditional uses

Cultivated for generations in North America, King of the Early is a traditional storage bean, valued for its reliability and rich flavor. It is part of a long lineage of bush beans grown for drying and winter use, a staple of northern family gardens.

Information for the Canadian climate

• Zones 8-9: direct sow after the last frost for an extended harvest.
• Zones 5-7: sow in late spring when the soil is warm; harvest dry beans in late summer.
• Zones 3-4: direct sow after frost or start indoors for a shorter but productive season.

How to grow and harvest King of the Early Bush Bean

• Sowing: 2.5 cm deep; 10 cm spacing; rows 45 cm apart.
• Watering: maintain regular moisture during flowering and pod formation.
• Harvest: harvest young for fresh consumption or let dry completely on the plant for dry beans.
• Care: little to no staking; mulch to retain moisture.

Tips for storing your seeds

• Allow pods to fully mature and dry on the plant.
• Shell the pods and ensure beans are firm and dry.
• Dry further if necessary, then store in an airtight container.
• Viability: 4 to 5 years.

Organic certification

Certified organic by: Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)