Bean – Bush – Blue Lake 274 (8-10 Seeds)

Phaseolus vulgaris – Bush – Blue Lake 274

• Growing Temp 60°F – 85°F

• Days to Maturity 50-60 days

Reliable, tender, and high-yielding: Blue Lake 274 is a widely loved bush bean known for its straight, stringless pods and excellent flavor. It is easy to grow, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced gardeners. Thriving in warm temperatures, this variety requires minimal maintenance and produces heavy yields. The beans can be eaten fresh, steamed, or preserved through canning and freezing.

Direct Sowing: Plant bean seeds directly in the garden after the last frost when soil temperatures reach at least 60°F. Sow seeds 1 inch deep and space them 3 inches apart in rows 18–24 inches apart. Beans germinate within 7–14 days. Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. As the plants grow, they will not require staking since Blue Lake 274 is a self-supporting bush variety. Regularly harvest the pods to encourage continuous production.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: For an early start, sow seeds indoors 2–4 weeks before the last frost. Use seedling trays filled with well-draining potting mix, placing one seed per cell at a depth of 1 inch. Maintain a temperature of 70–75°F for proper germination. Once seedlings develop their first true leaves and the risk of frost has passed, harden them off before transplanting them outdoors. Space transplants 3 inches apart in rows 18–24 inches apart. Water well and mulch around the base to retain moisture and reduce weed growth.

Harvesting: Beans are ready for harvest when the pods are firm, smooth, and about 4–6 inches long. The best time to pick them is when they are tender and before the seeds inside begin to swell. Harvest regularly to encourage further production. If left on the plant too long, the pods may become tough. Freshly picked beans have the best flavor and texture.