Dwarf Bean Purple Teepee

Dwarf French Bean 'Purple Teepee' produces 15cm (6") long pods that are stringless and slender, with that special flavoursome zing that many vegetable growers agree only comes from the purple podded types. This superb variety bears its pods above the main foliage for easier picking and less damage from soil splash. This quick maturing variety can be harvested throughout the summer for its purple pods that turn to brilliant emerald green when cooked. Height: 45cm (18"). Spread: 30cm (12").

Sowing

Sow dwarf bean seeds indoors from mid April for transplanting later on, or direct sow outdoors from late May to July.

Indoors, sow bean seeds at a depth of 4cm (1 1/2") in 7.5cm (3") pots or trays of free-draining, seed sowing compost. Place in a propagator or seal container inside a plastic bag at a temperature of 18-21C (65-70F) until germination, which takes 7-10 days. Do not exclude light as this helps germination. Once germinated, grow on in cooler conditions until all risk of frost has passed and the bean plants are large enough to be transplanted. Gradually acclimatise them to outdoor conditions over 7 - 10 days before planting beans outdoors in rich fertile, well drained soil in full sun with protection from strong winds.

Alternatively direct sow dwarf green beans outdoors when the soil has warmed. Sow 2 bean seeds per station at a depth of 4cm (1 1/2") and a distance of 23cm (9") apart. Plant dwarf beans in rows that are 45cm (18") apart.

More Info

When growing beans, hoe between plants often and water regularly. Provide a compost mulch around the base of bean plants to combat dry periods. For the best crops harvest beans regularly while the pods are still young.