The Agate Pinto bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is a dwarf bush variety known for its compact growth and distinctive tan seeds mottled with brown. This heirloom bean is prized for its creamy texture and rich, nutty flavour, making it a popular choice for soups, stews, and refried bean dishes. It matures early, making it ideal for shorter growing seasons, and can be harvested as a fresh snap bean or left to dry for later use. The plants reach about 18 to 24 inches in height and produce pods that dry down well for storage. Pinto beans, including the Agate variety, trace their origins to South America, where they were domesticated thousands of years ago before becoming a staple in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine. Agate Pinto beans are highly nutritious, providing a good source of protein, fiber, and essential minerals like phosphorus and manganese. They prefer well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 and should be direct-sown after the last frost. Regular watering is essential during flowering and pod development to ensure a productive harvest. Once dried, the beans store well for long-term use, making them a valuable addition to both home gardens and culinary traditions.
These seeds are available directly from Garden Faerie Botanicals in the heart of British Columbia, Canada. The collection features heirloom and heritage seeds that are personally cultivated organically without the use of any chemicals. Emphasizing historical, rare, non-GMO seeds, this selection preserves biodiversity through open-pollination.
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