Description
Yellow Eye Bush Bean (a.k.a. Dot-Eye Bean, Molasses-Face Bean)
50 Seeds per pack
Days to Maturity: 85–100 days
Sun Requirements: Full Sun
Botanical Name: Phaseolus vulgaris
A traditional heirloom valued across New England and Maritime Canada, the Yellow Eye Bean has long been a favorite for baked beans, hearty soups, and wholesome side dishes. Its plump, kidney-shaped seeds are creamy white with a distinctive golden “eye” at the inner seam, a marking that remains after cooking. Known for their savory flavor and smooth, creamy texture, these beans absorb seasonings well without breaking down, making them excellent for baked beans, stews, and blended dishes.
Native American communities traditionally used Yellow Eye Beans in recipes such as hulled corn soup, and they are often linked to the “three sisters” planting of corn, beans, and squash. Bush-type plants typically produce dependable yields of pods, each with 4–6 beans. Adaptable and easy to grow, they are well suited for a variety of kitchen uses!
Planting Instructions for Yellow Eye Bean Seeds
When to Plant
Sow seeds outdoors after the last frost when soil temperature is at least 60°F, ideally between 70–80°F. Yellow Eye Beans are frost-sensitive and should not be planted in cold, wet soil. In cooler climates, use black plastic mulch or cloches to help warm the soil more quickly.
Where to Plant
Choose a location with full sun and well-drained soil, preferably sandy loam. Avoid areas prone to standing water, which can lead to root rot. A soil pH of 6.0–6.8 is optimal. Enrich soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.
How to Plant
Avoid soaking seeds before planting in cool or damp soil, as it can promote rot. In warm soils, a short soak of 4–6 hours may improve germination. Sow seeds 1″ deep, spacing them 2–4″ apart in rows 18–24″ apart. If starting indoors, use biodegradable pots to prevent root disturbance, and harden off seedlings before transplanting.
Growing Notes
Bush-type plants produce pods with 4–6 creamy-white seeds marked with a golden “eye.” They tolerate a range of climates but benefit from consistent moisture during flowering and pod fill. Mulching helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Succession Planting
Typically grown for dry beans with one main harvest. Planting in stages is only necessary if a longer fresh bean harvest is desired.
Pests and Problems
Watch for aphids, Mexican bean beetles, spider mites, and fungal diseases such as rust or anthracnose. Practice 3-year crop rotation, avoid planting near onions or garlic, and handle plants only when dry to keep plant healthy.
Harvesting
For dry beans, harvest when pods are brittle and seeds rattle inside (85–100 days). Pull entire plants to dry for 1–2 weeks in a ventilated space, or in humid areas, pick pods as they mature and finish drying indoors.
Storage
Once fully dried, store beans in airtight containers in a cool, dark place. For long-term storage, use mylar bags or #10 cans with oxygen absorbers. Freeze for 48 hours before storage to eliminate insect eggs.
Cooking Tips
Known for their savory flavor and creamy texture, Yellow Eye Beans excel in baked beans, soups, and stews. They absorb seasonings well and hold their shape during cooking. Soak overnight, drain, boil for 10 minutes, then simmer until tender.
Seed Saving
Select mature, healthy pods from disease-free plants. Shell and dry completely before storing in seed saving envelopes or airtight containers in a cool, dry location. For maximum viability, store in freezer-safe containers. Seeds can remain viable for 3–5 years under ideal conditions.
FAQ:
What are Yellow Eye Bush Beans used for in cooking?
Yellow Eye Bush Beans are prized for their savory flavor and smooth, creamy texture. They’re a traditional favorite for baked beans, soups, stews, and blended dishes, as they absorb seasonings well and hold their shape during cooking.
How long do Yellow Eye Bush Beans take to mature?
Yellow Eye Bush Beans reach full maturity in 85–100 days when grown for dry beans. For fresh use, pods can be picked earlier, though this variety is most often grown for its dried seeds.
When is the best time to plant Yellow Eye Bush Beans?
Plant after the last frost when soil temperatures reach at least 60°F, ideally between 70–80°F. These beans are frost-sensitive and should not be sown in cold, wet soil.
How should I plant Yellow Eye Bush Bean seeds?
Sow seeds 1″ deep, spaced 2–4″ apart in rows 18–24″ apart. Avoid soaking seeds in cool or damp soil to prevent rot. In warm soils, a short soak of 4–6 hours may improve germination.
What growing conditions do Yellow Eye Bush Beans prefer?
They thrive in full sun with well-drained sandy loam soil and a pH of 6.0–6.8. Consistent moisture during flowering and pod fill improves yields, and mulch helps retain soil moisture.
How do I harvest Yellow Eye Bush Beans?
For dry beans, harvest when pods are brittle and seeds rattle inside. Pull entire plants and dry them for 1–2 weeks in a ventilated space, or pick pods as they mature in humid areas.
How should I store Yellow Eye Bush Beans for food use after harvest?
Once fully dried, store beans in airtight containers in a cool, dark location. For long-term storage, use mylar bags or #10 cans with oxygen absorbers. Freezing for 48 hours before storage helps kill any insect eggs.
Are Yellow Eye Bush Beans easy to grow?
Yes. They’re adaptable to many climates, produce dependable yields, and require minimal maintenance beyond good watering and weed control. Watch for common pests like aphids and bean beetles, and practice crop rotation.
Can I save seeds from Yellow Eye Bush Beans for next year?
Absolutely. Select mature, healthy pods from disease-free plants, shell and dry the seeds completely, and store them in a cool, dry place. Under ideal conditions, seeds remain viable for 3–5 years.
Ramona –
We ordered 75 yellow-eyed bean seeds. Only about half of the beans germinated. I followed the instructions on ChatGPT. I soaked them for no longer than 12 hours, then rinsed them and kept them moist and covered. I sandwiched them between damp paper towels and changed the towels each morning. Of 75, several broke apart without germinating, Several opened and did not have a root sprouting from them, so I discarded them. 23 are in a picture that I took after about 4 days; those were stinking of decomposition and I disposed of them. I don’t know yet if the ones I have planted will thrive. I will say that when I have germinated yellow-eyed beans before, they had much stronger-looking shoots than any of these did.