(Phaseolus spp.)
The tepary bean is a drought tolerant bean native to the Sonoran Desert. It produces flattish sandy-gold pebbly-looking beans. It is very productive in my New Mexico garden. Do not overwater. If you are growing in a very moist climate with a lot of summer rainfall, I suggest not watering at all. Harvest the dry seed pods when they are brown. The plant will continue to ripen more pods. You must harvest as they are ripe. If you leave them on the plant, the pods will "shatter" and spill the seed.
Details:
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| Fruit: | | Dry beans |
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| Lifecycle: | | 1 (0: N/A, 1: annual, 2: perennial, 3: biennial) |
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| Height: | | Vining habit to 2-3'. |
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| Diameter: | | 2'x2' |
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| Heirloom: | | yes |
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| Container Planting: | | no |
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Cultural Requirements:
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| Soil: | | Poor to moderate. |
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| Propagation / Germination: | | Plant in the early spring in mild climates or in May or June in cooler climates. Do not overwater. These beans are very drought tolerant. |
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| Sun: | | Full sun. |
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| Water: | | Minimal but regular water. |
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