Black (or grain) beans belong to the legume family, which includes many different species. It is grown for the purpose of obtaining grains. These beans are very convenient to store, they do not need to be processed, the grains are eaten whole. Contains a large amount of protein and amino acids. Included in diets for diseases of the gallbladder and liver. Helps the body fight certain infections. Recommended for use by diabetics.
Beans are very popular. She is especially loved for her unpretentiousness to conditions and care. Growing such a crop will not be difficult even for inexperienced gardeners.
The “Swallow” variety is probably familiar to all gardeners who have ever grown beans. It is considered one of the best among grain species. If you have not yet heard about this variety, you will be interested in familiarizing yourself with its characteristics. And if you are already growing Swallow beans, you may discover new care features for higher yields.
Characteristics of the variety
"Swallow" is a low-growing variety. The bush is strong, not spreading. According to the speed of ripening, it belongs to the early ripening varieties. Bean pods reach up to 15 cm in length. The grains are white with a pattern resembling a swallow. This is why beans got their name. Has excellent taste.
Some types of this culture can be cooked for several hours. The productivity of the variety is very high. Loves moist soil, but can tolerate drought well.
Used in cooking to prepare various side dishes and soups. Good for preservation. Beans are probably the few vegetable crops that, when canned, can retain up to 70% of their beneficial properties and vitamins.
Growing and care
The ideal time to plant seeds in open ground is from mid-May to early June. By that time, the frosts have subsided, and the soil has warmed up to the required temperature.
It is important to monitor the degree of soil heating during planting.
The seeds should be soaked overnight the day before planting to swell. And immediately before planting, place in a solution of boric acid for 5 minutes. To prepare such a solution, you need to combine in one container:
- 5 liters of water;
- 1 gram of boric acid.
This treatment will serve as protection against pests and possible diseases.
Loose, non-clayey soil is best suited for growing “Swallow”. Beans can be planted even on depleted soil, as it has the ability to fertilize it on its own. It is better to choose a place for the garden bed in a sunny place protected from the winds. The soil for growing beans should be fertilized in the fall.
Other representatives of the legume family are also bad predecessors for it.
Seeds are planted in the ground to a depth of 6 cm. The distance between bushes is up to 25 cm, and between rows is up to 40 cm. Up to 6 seeds are placed in one hole.After they sprout, leave 3 sprouts, and the remaining ones can be transplanted. After this has been done, the soil should be watered, and to conserve moisture and heat, cover the bed with film.
Caring for bean sprouts is very easy. From time to time the soil should be loosened and watered. You can fertilize with fertilizers several times.
That's all! Next, you need to be patient and wait for your harvest. As you can see, growing “Swallow” beans is really easy.
