Bean Seeds - Pole - Cherokee Trail of Tears Beans

Seed Count: 25 Seeds
Maturity Date: 85-95 Days from Planting/Transplanting
Plant Type: Pole Bean
Bean Characteristics: Deep black beans encased in green pods
Light Requirement: Full Sun
Soil Preference: Well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5
Special Features: Historically significant heirloom, resilient and productive

Botanical Name: Phaseolus vulgaris

History & Heritage:
The Cherokee Trail of Tears Bean is a profound heirloom variety, symbolizing resilience and cultural preservation. During the forced relocation of the Cherokee people in the 1830s, known as the Trail of Tears, they carried these beans with them, ensuring their survival and legacy. Dr. Wyche, a Cherokee gardener and seed steward, is credited with preserving and sharing this variety with the broader gardening community. This bean stands as a living testament to the strength and perseverance of the Cherokee people.

Culinary Uses:
Cherokee Trail of Tears Beans are celebrated for their rich, full-bodied flavor and versatile culinary uses. Whether harvested fresh as green beans or allowed to mature into deep black beans, they add hearty texture and taste to soups, stews, and side dishes. Their striking color and robust flavor make them a standout addition to any meal, whether as a centerpiece or a complement.

Growing Habits & Planting Instructions:

• Planting Depth: Sow seeds 1 inch deep directly into prepared soil after the danger of frost has passed.
• Spacing: Space seeds 3-4 inches apart in rows 2-3 feet apart. Provide sturdy support, such as trellises or poles, for the vines to climb.
• Watering: Maintain consistent soil moisture, particularly during flowering and pod formation. Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
• Care Tips: Cherokee Trail of Tears Beans thrive in full sun and fertile soil. Harvest pods early for green beans, or allow them to mature fully for black dry beans. Regular harvesting encourages continued production throughout the season.

Why Grow Cherokee Trail of Tears Beans?
Cherokee Trail of Tears Beans combine rich history, robust flavor, and gardening reliability. Their cultural significance, productivity, and culinary versatility make them a meaningful and rewarding choice for any garden. Add Cherokee Trail of Tears Beans to your garden to honor their heritage and enjoy a bountiful harvest!