Black turtle beans are one of the most popular varieties of dry beans, especially in Latin American cuisine. This variety, also known as black beans, is overwhelmingly classified as a bush bean (determinate growth habit). Their compact structure and self-supporting nature make them a favored choice for many gardeners. Black turtle beans are known for their rich, earthy flavor and distinctive shiny black coat.
Understanding Bean Growth Habits
The distinction between bush and pole beans is based on the plant’s genetic growth pattern. Bush beans exhibit determinate growth, meaning their vertical growth is genetically limited and ceases once the plant develops flowers. This results in a compact, self-supporting plant that typically produces its entire crop within a concentrated, shorter period.
Pole beans display an indeterminate growth habit, meaning they continue to grow vegetatively and flower over an extended period. These plants are vining, requiring external support, such as a trellis or stakes, to grow vertically. Indeterminate varieties produce a sustained harvest over a longer season compared to their bush counterparts.
Specific Growth Characteristics of Black Turtle Beans
Black turtle beans are characterized by their determinate growth. The plants typically reach a sturdy height of 18 to 24 inches tall, meaning they do not develop the long, searching vines characteristic of pole beans.
The flowering and fruiting occur largely at once, leading to a concentrated harvest period ideal for drying beans. They require a long growing season, generally maturing in 85 to 100 days, after which the pods are left to dry on the plant. While the standard black turtle bean is a true bush type, some varieties may exhibit a semi-vining habit, but they still do not require the extensive trellising of a true pole bean.
Practical Planting and Support Needs
The bush classification dictates that black turtle beans do not require structural support. Since the plant is compact and self-supporting, gardeners save the effort and material costs associated with building trellises or teepees. This makes them highly suitable for row planting or block planting.
Proper spacing is important to maximize yield and maintain plant health. Seeds are typically sown 4 to 6 inches apart in the row, with 24 to 30 inches left between rows to ensure adequate air circulation. Although the plants stand upright without assistance, mounding soil around the base of the stems, known as hilling, can offer additional stability against strong winds.