If you’re like me and you have a deep love for green beans, then you’ll want to pay attention. I used to believe that pole beans were the superior choice, with their abundance and incredible flavor. But after some experimentation, I’ve come to realize that bush beans deserve more credit than they’ve been given. These compact beans may be shorter in stature, but they pack a punch in flavor and convenience. So, let me introduce you to some of my favorite bush bean varieties that will take your veggie garden to the next level.
Roma II: The Italian Classic, Now in Bush Form
Let’s start with Roma II, the bush version of the beloved Italian classic pole bean. These stringless snap beans have tender, meaty, smooth, and flat pods that are perfect for canning. Not to mention, they are prolific and resistant to both mosaic and mildew mosaic. In just 55 days, you’ll be able to harvest these delectable beans.
Maxibel: The French Filet Bean
If you’re looking for just one bush bean variety to add to your garden, make it Maxibel. These full-size French filet beans boast straight, dark green pods that measure 7 inches in length. As a gourmet-type bean, Maxibel offers unbeatable flavor. Give them 60 days, and you’ll have a bountiful harvest.
Royal Burgundy: A Conversation-Starter
For a visually striking addition to your garden, consider Royal Burgundy. The stunning deep purple color of its 5-inch, stringless pods is sure to catch everyone’s attention. But don’t worry, they turn green when cooked. This adaptable and virus-resistant variety is a great choice for any garden, even in cooler areas.
Dragon Tongue: The Heirloom Beauty
If you appreciate heirloom varieties, then Dragon Tongue is a must-have. These stringless Dutch wax beans feature creamy yellow pods with beautiful purple streaks. Not only are they visually appealing, but they also deliver superb flavor that’s favored by chefs. In just 55 days, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest.
Nickel: A French Baby Gourmet
My personal favorite is Nickel, a French baby gourmet filet bean. With its 4-inch-long, stringless, and delicious pods, it’s hard to resist. This variety is also resistant to white mold and brown spots. In just 52 days, you’ll be indulging in these gourmet beans.
Jade: Productivity at Its Finest
If quantity is your goal, look no further than Jade. This super productive and flavorful bean produces slender, dark green pods that measure 5 to 7 inches in length. Jade tends to outperform other bush bean varieties, so you’ll have an ample supply for your needs. It takes just 56 days to harvest.
Cupidon: A French Filet Delight
Prepare yourself for a snap bean that will blow your taste buds away. Cupidon, a French filet variety, has 6 to 8-inch-long stringless pods that are loaded with flavor and impossibly tender. Trust me, you don’t want to miss out on this one. In just 55 days, you can experience the magic.
Bush Kentucky Wonder (Old Homestead): A Garden Favorite
Bush Kentucky Wonder (also known as Old Homestead) is a tried-and-true favorite of home gardeners everywhere. This big producer yields 8-inch-long stringless and tender pods that are perfect for both fresh eating and canning. Don’t miss out on the excellent flavor it offers. It takes just 55 days to harvest.
Tendercrop: Reliable and Delicious
Another reliable variety for home gardens is Tendercrop. These beans produce tender yet crisp and delicious pods. As a heavy-yielding variety, Tendercrop is particularly well-suited for northern regions. You’ll be able to harvest these beans in just 55 days.
Contender: Round Pods of Freshness
Last but not least, we have Contender. These beans produce round, stringless pods that measure 6 to 8 inches in length and offer that fresh green bean flavor you crave. With its early production, heat tolerance, and resistance to mildew, Contender is a fantastic addition to any garden. In just 45 days, you’ll have a harvest ready to enjoy.
So there you have it. These bush bean varieties have proven their worth in my garden, and I’m excited to share them with you. Whether you’re a fan of canning, freezing, or simply enjoying fresh green beans, these varieties will not disappoint. Get ready for a season filled with abundant harvests and mouthwatering flavors!
