Pinto beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) are a type of common bean valued for their speckled appearance and earthy flavor, forming the basis of many traditional dishes. These legumes are a warm-weather crop, making them relatively uncomplicated for home gardeners to cultivate successfully. Growing pinto beans from seed to a finished, dried product requires attention to timing, soil preparation, and consistent maintenance.
Preparing the Growing Environment
Pinto beans thrive when planted in a location that receives full sun. Selecting the right planting time is essential because these beans are sensitive to cold temperatures. They should be direct-sown into the garden only after all risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed considerably, ideally reaching a temperature above 60°F.
The soil composition must offer good drainage, as waterlogged conditions can cause the seeds to rot before germination. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH, ranging between 6.0 and 7.0, provides the optimal growing medium for pinto beans. Incorporating a layer of compost into the planting area before sowing can help improve soil structure and provide initial nutrients.
Sowing Seeds and Spacing
Pinto beans do not respond well to root disturbance, so direct-sowing the seeds into the prepared garden bed is the preferred method for planting. The seeds should be placed about one to two inches deep into the soil with the eye facing downward. Planting the seeds too early into cool, damp soil will likely result in failure to germinate.
Recommended spacing between individual seeds is four to six inches. If planting in rows, establish a space of at least two to three feet between each row to ensure proper air circulation and easy access for maintenance. Some gardeners choose to treat the seeds with a bean and pea inoculant, a commercial product containing beneficial bacteria that helps the plant fix nitrogen more efficiently.
Ongoing Care and Pest Management
Consistent moisture is necessary, especially during the germination period and the plant’s flowering stage, which directly impacts pod development. Watering should be deep and infrequent once the plants are established, encouraging a strong root system. It is important to water at the base of the plant using a soaker hose or drip irrigation to avoid wetting the foliage.
Wetting the leaves can create conditions favorable for fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew or white mold. Pinto beans are legumes, which means they fix nitrogen from the atmosphere into the soil, generally reducing the need for heavy nitrogen-based fertilizers. If the young plants show pale leaves, a light application of a nitrogen-rich fertilizer can be applied.
Pinto beans can grow as either bush or pole varieties, and support needs will depend on the type planted. Vining or pole varieties require a sturdy trellis or fence installed before planting to prevent root damage later. Monitor for pests like aphids, spider mites, and the Mexican bean beetle. Mexican bean beetles can be managed by hand-picking them off the plants or by applying insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Harvesting and Drying Pinto Beans
The goal for dry pinto beans is to allow the pods to mature and completely dry on the plant, a process that takes approximately 90 to 150 days from planting, depending on the variety. The pods are ready for harvest when they are completely dry, brittle, and have turned a yellowish-tan or brown color. A gentle shake of a mature pod will often produce a rattling sound from the dry beans inside.
If a hard frost is imminent or excessive rain is predicted, the entire plant can be cut at the base and hung upside down in a sheltered, well-ventilated area to finish drying. After the pods are fully dry, the beans can be shelled by hand or by placing the pods in a sack and gently hitting them to split the husks. Storing the final product in an airtight container in a cool, dark location ensures a shelf life of up to one year.