How to Grow Yin Yang Beans
- 1). Prepare your soil once all danger of frost has passed; this will vary by the USDA zone you live in, as well as the weather conditions of the year. Spread a light layer of manure, compost or fertilizer as preferred; beans are light feeders, in addition to the fact that excess nitrogen causes more foliage and less beans, along with delayed crops. Use about l 1/2 oz. (equal to 3 tbsp.) of 10-10-10 fertilizer for every 10-foot row.
- 2). Till the dirt thoroughly, mixing nutrients into the soil. Test the soil, if possible, after cultivating the soil; optimum pH level is between 5.5 and 7. Adjust pH, as needed, by adding products such as aluminum sulfate to lower and lime or even wood ash to raise. Follow product instructions.
- 3). Plant Yin Yang beans once the soil temperature reaches a minimum of 60 degrees F. Beans prefer soil temperatures of 65 to 85 degrees F for best results. Dig small holes with your finger or similar object, dropping bean seeds 1 inch deep and 2 to 3 inches apart. Cover with dirt; form rows 18 to 36 inches apart.
- 4). Water beans lightly after planting and ensure full sunlight. Yin Yang beans should begin sprouting in 8 to 16 days, depending on soil conditions and temperature. Cup seedlings in mulch and spread out from the plant in a light layer to help conserve moisture; water as needed; during very hot weather, they may require as much as 1/4 inch of water. Water whenever the soil feels dry when you poke your finger into the dirt up to your knuckle.
- 5). Weed around the plants as necessary while they grow. Watch as plants reach 18 to 24 inches in height, when they will begin blooming. Pick green beans for fresh eating about two weeks after the bloom, or continue growing for dry bean harvest.
- 6). Allow your Yin Yang beans to dry out on the plant, and do not water once this begins. Once the pods are completely straw-colored and dry, pull the plants up by their roots. Hang to dry.
- 7). Shell dry beans after hanging a week or two. Place pods inside a bag and work them back and forth, making the shell drop off. Use or store as desired.
Source...