French Horticultural Bush Bean

‘French Horticultural,’ also known as ‘October Bean,’ is a vigorous, dependable variety valued for its versatility as both a fresh shell bean and a dry bean. Plants produce flavorful beans that are especially easy to shell and can also be allowed to mature fully for drying and storage.

Sow ‘French Horticultural’ directly in the garden after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. Plants are hardy, reliable, and disease resistant, with some plants occasionally producing runners that may benefit from light support.

For fresh shell beans, harvest when the pods are mature and the beans inside are plump but still tender. For dry beans, leave the pods on the plants until they are fully mature and dry, typically around 90 days.

‘French Horticultural’ beans are especially good for fresh cooking and can also be canned, frozen, or dried for later use, making them a versatile addition to the garden.