Dry beans typically take between 70 to 120 days to reach harvest. This means that from the time you plant the beans until you can harvest the mature beans, it can take anywhere from a little over two months to around four months. The specific time it takes for dry beans to grow depends on various factors such as the specific variety of bean, climate conditions, and growing practices.
When it comes to growing dry beans, it’s important to consider the different types available. Beans for shelling are commonly grown on bushes that are around 2 to 3 feet tall. These bush beans tend to have a shorter growing season compared to pole beans, which can grow to be 8 feet tall or even taller. The growing time for pole beans can be slightly longer due to their larger size and longer vines.
In my own experience as a gardener, I’ve found that the time it takes for dry beans to grow can also vary depending on the climate and growing conditions. For instance, beans grown in warmer climates with ample sunlight may mature faster than those grown in cooler or shadier areas. Additionally, the amount of rainfall and irrigation provided can also impact the growth rate of the beans.
To give you a better understanding of the growth timeline for dry beans, let’s break it down into stages:
1. Germination: Once you plant the dry bean seeds, they will typically germinate within 7 to 10 days. During this stage, the seeds absorb water and sprout, sending out roots and shoots.
2. Vegetative growth: After germination, the beans will enter a vegetative growth phase where they focus on developing a strong root system and growing leaves. This stage usually lasts for about 3 to 4 weeks.
3. Flowering: Once the plants have established themselves, they will start producing flowers. The flowering stage typically occurs around 4 to 6 weeks after planting, depending on the variety. During this time, the plants will develop small, delicate blooms that eventually lead to the formation of pods.
4. Pod development: After pollination, the flowers will gradually turn into pods. The time it takes for the pods to develop and fill with beans can vary, but it generally takes around 2 to 3 weeks.
5. Maturation: As the pods continue to develop, the beans inside will mature and dry out. This stage can take anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the specific variety and growing conditions. It’s important to monitor the beans closely during this time to ensure they are fully mature before harvesting.
6. Harvesting: Once the beans have fully matured and dried, they are ready to be harvested. This typically occurs between 70 to 120 days after planting, as mentioned earlier. You can harvest the beans by gently pulling the pods from the plant or by cutting the entire plant and allowing it to dry further before removing the beans.
The growth rate of dry beans can vary depending on several factors, but with proper care and attention, you can expect your beans to reach maturity and be ready for harvest within a few months. It’s important to follow specific guidelines for the variety of dry beans you are growing and to provide the necessary conditions for optimal growth.
