Yard Long Noodle King

START SEEDS OUTDOORS

In late spring, once night temperatures stay securely above 55°F (13°C), plant seeds in well-worked, fertile soil in full sun. Erect strong stakes, tripod poles or trellis at planting time to support vines. Plant 1 in. deep & 4 inches apart along a trellis; around tripods or stakes, plant 4 to 6 seeds about 4 in. from each pole, thinning seedlings to 3 best plants per pole.

GROWING NOTES

Yard Long beans are easy to grow as long as you have plenty of sunshine & warm weather. Do not plant too early as cold conditions prevent good germination & growth. If first sowing comes up unevenly, replant right away; new seedlings will catch up quickly. Birds are attracted to young seedlings; watch carefully & protect with netting if necessary. Avoid harvesting beans in wet conditions.

HARVEST AND USE

For the best yields, pick beans frequently, at least every 2 or 3 days. Harvest these astonishingly long, crispy pods when beans are still pencil thin, the pods snap when bent & before the seeds have filled out inside; generally when about 12 to 18 inches long. If the pods get too thick & bulky, they will be fibrous & tough.

Chop the green, skinny pods into 2-3 inch pieces & quickly stirfry or sauté to enjoy their mild, nutty flavor. Try quickly cooking them Asian style with sautéed garlic & ginger, finishing the dish with a little toasted sesame oil & sesame seeds or toasted peanuts. You’ll love them!