Start Seeds Outdoors In spring, once weather is warm and settled and night temperatures stay securely above 55F (13C), plant seeds in well-worked, fertile soil in full sun. Poke seeds in 1 in. deep and 4 in. apart in rows 1.5-2 ft. apart. Make several sowings several weeks apart until the end of June to provide long continued harvests.

Tender crispy garden beans are an easy reliable crop to grow, but don't plant seeds too early as cold conditions prevent good germination. If first sowing comes up unevenly, replant right away; new seedlings will catch up quickly. Birds are often attracted to young bean seedlings, so watch carefully and protect with netting or floating row covers if necessary. Avoid cultivating plants or picking pods when plants are wet.

Harvest and Use: These vigorous plants produce strong harvests. The more you pick, the more the plants will produce, and the nitrogen fixing bacteria on the roots of bean plants actually improves your soil. Sow another crop about three weeks after your first planting and you'll have a welcome second harvest in late summer. Tasty Royalty Purple Pod bean pods will turn green after a few minutes of cooking.