New Mexico Bolita Bean Seeds, Bush/half Runner, Heirloom ,brought by the Spanish as they settled New Mexico

This bean was one of the original varieties brought by the Spanish as they settled New Mexico, These beans are considered to be sweeter, richer tasting and easier on the stomach than the pinto bean. The bolita bean is believed to have been cultivated and developed by the Spanish who settled in northern New Mexico.

Bolita Beans grow on a bush with runners to 7’. The bush has deep roots so it can withstand some dry spells. Spanish settlers introduced the Bolita Bean to the Four Corners area, especially New Mexico. The bean has since been incorporated into American Indian food traditions. Richer creamy flavor than the Pinto bean, cooks fast, high in protein and easy to digest. Matures later than many beans, good for warmer long-season climates, grown for drying, prolific. Bolita means “little ball”.
Direct sow after last frost when soil tempt is about 70˚F. Beans are sensitive to cool soil and will rot if soil temps are below 55˚F. Sow bush snap beans every 2-3 weeks until mid summer for a continued harvest. Sow pole beans from late spring to very early summer. Sow pole beans 3 seeds per hole, 8” between hole and trellis rows 4’ spacing. Thin to 6-8” apart. Beans are susceptible to numerous diseases, avoid wetting foliage, remove plants at the end of the year, practice 4 year crop rotation. Save each year’s seeds in separate containers. Crossing is not apparent until the next generations. Soil pH 6-6.8. Hardiness zones 5-13. Annual.