Growing Enough Beans for One Person for a Year

Introduction

Beans are a versatile and nutritious crop that can be easily grown both indoors and outdoors. In this guide, we will walk you through the processes involved in growing enough beans for one person for a year, including indoor and outdoor gardening, seed variety selection, organic garden fertilizer and compost, garden bed preparations, interplanting and companion planting, bean preservation, and determining the required planting area.

Indoor and Outdoor Gardening

Beans can be grown both indoors and outdoors, depending on the available space and climate. Indoor gardening allows for year-round cultivation, while outdoor gardening provides the advantage of natural sunlight and a larger growing area. Consider the space, light conditions, and temperature requirements when choosing between indoor and outdoor gardening.

Heirloom Bean Seed Variety Selection

When selecting bean seeds, opt for heirloom varieties as they offer better taste and genetic diversity. Choose a mix of bush and pole beans to ensure a continuous harvest throughout the year. Some popular heirloom bean varieties include Black Turtle, Pinto, and Scarlet Runner. There are varieties for fresh eating (green or garden), wax, fava, mung, kidney, soup, lima, garbanzo, etc. So very many choices, with so many uses! https://migardener.com/collections/bean

Organic Garden Fertilizer and Compost

To ensure healthy bean plants and high yields, use organic garden fertilizers and compost. Compost provides essential nutrients, improves soil structure, and enhances water retention. Incorporate well-rotted compost into the garden bed before planting and use organic fertilizers throughout the growing season as needed.

Garden Bed Preparations

Prepare the garden bed by clearing any weeds or debris. Beans prefer well-drained soil, so ensure proper drainage by adding compost or organic matter to improve soil structure. Create rows or raised beds, leaving enough space for the beans to spread and climb.

Interplanting and Companion Planting

To maximize yields and deter pests, consider interplanting and companion planting. Planting beans alongside other crops like corn or cucumbers can provide support for the beans to climb. Additionally, companion plants such as marigolds and basil can help repel pests and attract beneficial insects.

Bean Preservation

Beans can be preserved through canning, freezing, or drying. Canning involves pressure canning, while freezing requires blanching the beans before freezing. Drying beans can be done by allowing them to fully mature on the plant and then drying them indoors. Leather breeches involves drying green beans on strings for soup use. Choose the preservation method that suits your preferences and storage capabilities.

Planting Area Calculation

The amount of planting area required to provide one year's worth of beans for a person depends on various factors such as the individual's daily consumption, the bean variety, and the desired yield. As a general guideline, one person who consumes beans daily may require approximately 100 square feet of planting area or 20-30 feet of row space.

Bean Sprouts

Some beans, such as mung beans and lentils, are suitable for sprouting. These beans can be soaked and sprouted for a nutrient-rich addition to salads, sandwiches, or stir-fries. However, certain beans, such as kidney beans or black beans, should not be sprouted as they contain toxins that are eliminated through cooking.

Conclusion

Growing enough beans for one person for a year involves careful planning and execution. By following the processes of indoor and outdoor gardening, seed variety selection, organic fertilization, garden bed preparations, interplanting, companion planting, and preservation techniques, you can enjoy a year-round supply of delicious and nutritious beans.