Care and Maintenance

• Mulching: Apply mulch around plants to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and control weeds.
• Pest Control: Watch for aphids, bean beetles, and slugs. Use floating row covers to protect seedlings.
• Disease Management: Rotate crops yearly and avoid overhead watering to reduce risk of fungal diseases.

Harvesting Tips

• Timing: Harvest snap beans when they snap cleanly in half and are 5-7 inches long. The seeds should be small and the pods should feel firm.
• Method: Hold the stem while picking the pod to avoid damaging the plant, which will encourage continued production.
• Continuous Harvesting: Picking pods frequently promotes flowering and enhances yield.

Additional Information

• Companion Planting: Avoid planting with alliums (e.g., garlic, onions) as they may inhibit bean growth.
• Composting: End-of-season plants make excellent compost if disease-free.
• Blue Lake 274 is a reliable choice for gardeners seeking a high-yielding, flavorful, and versatile bush bean variety. Its compact growth habit, disease resistance, and stringless pods make it easy to manage and ideal for preserving as well as fresh consumption.