Black Turtle Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is a classic heirloom bean variety highly prized in Latin American cuisine for its rich flavor, firm texture, and exceptional versatility. These glossy black beans are a staple ingredient in soups, stews, rice dishes, salads, and traditional homemade recipes where they absorb seasonings beautifully while maintaining their hearty texture.
Black Turtle Beans are packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them an excellent choice for balanced diets and homegrown pantry staples. Their dependable productivity and easy-growing nature make them popular among gardeners, homesteaders, and small-scale growers alike.
These productive bean plants thrive in full sun and well-drained soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. Plant seeds after the last frost once soil temperatures reach approximately 60°F. With proper care and moderate watering during flowering and pod development, Black Turtle Beans will reward gardeners with abundant harvests of flavorful dry beans perfect for long-term storage and cooking throughout the year.
Black Turtle Bean Seed Details
- Quantity: 25 Seeds
- Seed Planting Depth: 1.5 Inches
- Germination Temperature: 75°F
- Days to Germination: 7–10 Days
- Row Spacing: 36 Inches
- Plant Spacing: 6 Inches
- 100-Foot Row Yield: Approx. 24 lbs
- Sun Requirements: Full Sun
- Harvest Time: Approximately 57 Days
How to Save Black Turtle Bean Seeds
Black Turtle Beans are primarily self-pollinating, so cross-pollination between bean varieties is relatively uncommon. However, if preserving pure seed stock is important, separating different bean varieties by approximately 150 feet is recommended.
Allow Black Turtle Bean pods to fully mature and dry naturally on the plant before harvesting. Once harvested, spread the pods out in a dry, well-ventilated area for an additional week to continue curing and drying thoroughly.
After the pods are completely dry, shell the beans and discard any damaged or discolored seeds. Store healthy seeds in an airtight labeled container in a cool dry location for future planting seasons.
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When looking for our seeds for this year, my husband and I wanted to prioritize a few things 1. Christian, 2. non-GMO/organic, 3. family owned 4. high quality. We were delighted to check every box with South Ga Seed Co. We were impressed with the variety of seeds, packaging, shipping time, and personalized note when our package arrived. We haven’t reaped the benefits of planting the seeds yet- but with the experience thus far we expect great yields!