Jersey Pole Bean

An exceptional heirloom variety offering crisp and delicious green beans during the growing season, followed by attractive dried beans that develop a lovely grey-brown mottled appearance. With a wonderfully rich and nutty flavour, the dried beans are perfect for soups, stews, and hearty dishes. The vigorous climbing vines produce abundantly, making it an ideal choice for gardeners seeking productivity and flavour. We found this variety at the seed exchange table of the 2018 Northeast Organic Growers Conference in New York State and have been impressed enough by its performance in our coastal BC climate to add it to our catalogue.

Where Can You Grow Jersey Pole Bean?
Jersey Pole Bean grows best in Zones 3-9, thriving in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil. Perfect for vertical gardens, raised beds, trellises, and sunny locations.

History and Historical Uses
An heirloom variety popular in home gardens for its dual-purpose use: enjoyed fresh as green beans, or harvested later as dried beans for cooking. Beans like the Jersey Pole Bean have historically provided nutritious, versatile food in North American gardens, becoming staples for many families.

Canadian Zone Information
Zones 8-9: Sow directly outdoors in spring after last frost; continuous harvest through late summer.
Zones 5-7: Direct sow after last frost or start indoors 3 weeks earlier for a longer harvest.
Zones 3-4: Start indoors and transplant after frost risk has passed for best results.

How to Grow and Harvest Jersey Pole Bean

• Planting: Sow seeds 2.5cm (1in) deep directly outdoors after frost danger, 10-15cm (4-6in) apart along a sturdy support.
• Watering: Provide consistent moisture for best yields; avoid overhead watering.
• Harvesting: Regularly harvest pods young for fresh eating; leave some pods to mature fully for dried beans.
• Maintenance: Provide trellising or stakes; mulch to conserve moisture.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply

• Select Mature Pods: Allow pods to dry fully on the vine until brown and crisp.
• Harvest Beans: Remove dried beans from pods, ensuring beans are dry and firm.
• Dry and Store: Spread beans out to fully dry for additional days if needed; store in airtight containers.
• Store: Keep beans cool, dry, and dark; viable for 4-5 years when properly stored.

Certified Organic By
Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)