(Phaseolus vulgaris)
Black Valentine bush bean was introduced by Peter Henderson & Co. in 1897. It produces excellent quality beans that are 14-16 cm (5½-6½") long. Pods are straight, tender and flavorful and almost round. They are ideal for table use, freezing and canning as they retain their flavor when processed. Plants are compact bushes around 40-45 cm (16-18") tall with a spread that averages 30-40 cm (12-16”) wide. For dry beans, leave pods on the vine to dry and pick when you can hear the beans rattle inside the pods, in about 70-100 days.
Soil Conditions: Well-drained soil that is fertile. Soil pH: 6.0-7.5 Planting Depth: Sow seeds 2.5-5cm (1-2”) deep. Germination: 7-10 days. Height at Maturity: 30-60cm (12-24”) tall. Days to Maturity: 50-60 days. Watering: Keep soil evenly moist. Sun/Shade: Full sun. Spacing after Thinning: Thin seedlings to 15-20cm (6-8”) apart.