The Ultimate Guide to Growing and Caring for Dragon Tongue Bush Beans

If you’re looking to add a versatile and fun-to-grow bean variety to your garden, look no further than Dragon Tongue bush beans (Phaseolus vulgaris ‘Dragon Tongue’). This Dutch heirloom variety is known for its colorful pods that change as they ripen, making it easy to know when to harvest. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, Dragon Tongue bush beans are a fantastic choice for your garden.

Planting Dragon Tongue Bush Beans

Growing these beans is a breeze when you follow these simple steps:

When to Plant

Dragon tongue bush beans are not frost hardy, so make sure to wait until all danger of spring frost has passed before sowing your seeds. The soil temperature should be at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal germination.

Selecting a Planting Site

Choose a sunny spot in your garden with loose, well-draining soil for your Dragon Tongue beans. Avoid planting them in shaded areas where they won’t receive enough sunlight.

Spacing, Depth, and Support

When planting in rows, sow the seeds 1-inch deep and 4 inches apart with rows spaced 2 1/2 to 3 feet apart. In a raised bed, a grid or diamond pattern works best with seeds planted 1 1/2 inches deep and 6 inches apart. Dragon Tongue bush beans reach heights of 2 to 2 1/2 feet and typically don’t need staking or fencing.

Caring for Dragon Tongue Bush Beans

Once your beans are planted, they require minimal care but still benefit from some attention to ensure a bountiful harvest:

Light

Dragon Tongue beans thrive in full sun, so make sure they receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. Avoid planting them near taller crops that may shade them.

Soil

These beans prefer light, loamy soil with a neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. If your soil is heavy in clay, consider mixing in sand or compost before planting.

Water

Dragon Tongue bush beans need consistent watering, aiming for about one inch of water per week. During germination, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Drip irrigation is a practical way to keep your beans hydrated.

Temperature and Humidity

Dragon Tongue beans thrive in temperatures between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. While they can handle varying humidity levels, they are not frost-tolerant. Watch out for extreme heat, as flowers may drop without producing fruit.

Fertilizer

These beans are nitrogen-fixers, meaning they create their own nitrogen fertilizer. However, a low-nitrogen fertilizer can be applied at planting and again when small beans begin to form. Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers, as they can lead to excess foliage growth and fewer beans.

Pollination

While pollinators like bees are beneficial, Dragon Tongue beans are also wind-pollinated. Encourage pollination by planting bee-friendly flowers nearby or gently shaking the plants to distribute pollen.

Variety vs. Variety

Dragon tongue beans may resemble cranberry beans, but they are distinct in taste and purpose. While cranberry beans are often used as shelled or dried beans, Dragon Tongue beans are best enjoyed fresh. Keep an eye on their colors to distinguish between the two types.

Harvesting Dragon Tongue Bush Beans

In just 55 to 60 days, your Dragon Tongue bush beans will be ready for harvest. Look for cream-colored pods with purple streaking to indicate they are ripe for picking. Fresh pods are crisp and delicious, while dried beans have a nutty, starchy flavor.

Growing Dragon Tongue Bush Beans in Pots

If you’re short on garden space, you can still enjoy a bountiful harvest by growing Dragon Tongue beans in pots. Choose a container with good drainage and plant seeds at the appropriate depth. Fertilize regularly and water as needed to keep your beans thriving.

Common Pests and Plant Diseases

Keep an eye out for pests like Mexican bean beetles and diseases like mosaic virus that can impact your bean crop. Regular inspections and proper care can help you grow a healthy harvest of Dragon Tongue beans.

In conclusion, Dragon Tongue bush beans are a fantastic addition to any garden, providing colorful and delicious beans with minimal effort. With the right care and attention, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of these flavorful beans in no time. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your gardening gloves, and get ready to grow your own Dragon Tongue bush beans!