Rolande

START SEEDS OUTDOORS

In spring, once weather is warm and settled and night temperatures stay above 55°F (13°C), plant seeds in well-worked, fertile soil in full sun. Poke seeds in 1 inch deep and 4 inches apart in rows 1 1/2 to 2 feet apart. Make successive sowings several weeks apart until the end of June to provide long continued harvests.

GROWING NOTES

Tender, crispy garden beans are an easy reliable crop to grow, but don’t plant seeds too early as cold conditions prevent good germination. If first sowing comes up unevenly, replant right away; new seedlings will catch up quickly. Birds are often attracted to young bean seedlings, so watch carefully and protect with netting or floating row covers if necessary. Avoid cultivating plants or picking pods when plants are wet.

HARVEST AND USE

Pick these fine flavored French gourmet beans more often than other bean varieties; at least every other day. They should be full size, but still very slender and no thicker than a pencil. The more you pick, the more plants will produce. Steam or sauté them quickly, just until tender-crisp and serve simply to fully enjoy their tempting flavor.