Hidatsa Shield Bean Seeds For Planting: Premium Heirloom Seeds for Home Gardeners - High Yield, Rich Flavor, and Heritage Variety"

Hidatsa Shield Bean Growing Guide

Key Attributes:

• Product Name: Hidatsa Shield Bean Seeds
• Scientific Name: Phaseolus vulgaris
• Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated
• Growth Habit: Semi-runner (can be grown as a bush or supported to climb)
• Pod Color: Green pods with tan, white, and brown shield-patterned beans
• Pod Size: 5-6 inches long
• Days to Maturity: 80-100 days
• Light Requirements: Full sun (6-8 hours daily)
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter (pH 6.0–7.5)
• Uses: Dry beans for soups, stews, and baking

Product Details:

• Germination Rate: High for reliable growth
• Seed Freshness: Newly harvested for optimal germination
• Origin: Traditional heirloom cultivated by the Hidatsa people of North Dakota
• Shelf Life: Best planted within one year for maximum viability

Planting Instructions:

Seed Preparation:

• No pre-soaking required, but soaking for 6-8 hours may speed germination.

Sowing Guidelines:

Direct Sowing (Recommended):

• When to Plant: Sow outdoors after the last frost when soil has warmed to at least 60°F (16°C).
• Depth: Plant 1 inch deep in well-draining soil.
• Spacing:
  • Bush Growth: 6 inches apart in rows 24-36 inches apart
  • Trellised Growth: 4-6 inches apart along a trellis or support

Germination:

• Typically occurs within 7-10 days under optimal conditions.
• Keep soil moist but not soggy.

Care & Maintenance:

• Watering: Provide deep, consistent watering, especially during flowering and pod formation. Avoid overhead watering to prevent disease.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting, then a phosphorus-rich fertilizer when flowering begins.
• Support: While technically a bush bean, it benefits from light trellising or staking for better air circulation.
• Mulching: Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Pest & Disease Prevention: Rotate crops yearly, inspect for beetles and aphids, and avoid excessive nitrogen to prevent excessive foliage growth over pod production.

Harvesting & Storage:

• When to Harvest:
  • For fresh shell beans, harvest when pods begin to dry but beans are still tender.
  • For dry beans, allow pods to fully mature and dry on the plant before harvesting.
• Storage: Store dry beans in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to one year.