SproutSmart
SproutSmart™ Intelligent Garden Sowing

Navy Bean

Bean
Zone 13a Save Garden

Planting Schedule

Add Navy Bean to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.
Botanical illustration of Navy Bean
90d to harvest

A deep, velvety hush of color—Navy Bean dries down to a smooth, uniform slate-blue that looks almost inked onto the seed coat. When rehydrated, the beans turn tender and creamy with a fine, even texture that holds its shape beautifully, making them a pantry staple you’ll reach for again and again. Grow this dependable bush bean for a steady harvest of classic dry beans—ideal for slow-simmered favorites, hearty soups, and satisfying bean-forward dishes.

Sowing Tips

Soil Temperature

Direct sow or transplant when soil at planting depth holds 60°F for reliable germination and early growth.

Expert Note

For dry navy beans, soil must be warm—sow after the risk of frost and keep beds evenly moist until emergence, then water less to encourage pod set.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 13a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).
MilestoneDate
Start Indoors—
ClimateFrost-Free Climate
Transplant / Sow OutdoorsOct 1st
Harvest BeginsDec 30th
Harvest EndsFeb 28th

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity90
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitBush
Support NeededNone
Planting DepthNormal
Germination Temp (°F)70
Min Soil Temp (°F)60
Min Night Temp (°F)50
Harden Off (days)Not Required

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Navy Bean in Zone 13a typically begins around 2026-10-01. Wait until soil reaches at least 60°F before transplanting Navy Bean.

Garden Alerts

In frost-free Zone 13a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent and treat common navy bean pests or diseases like bean rust or aphids?
In Phaseolus vulgaris, bean rust and aphids often show up as leaf speckling, rust-colored spots, and distorted growth. Start with disease-safe habits: space plants for airflow, avoid wetting leaves, and remove heavily affected leaves early. For aphids, spray plants with a strong jet of water and, if needed, use insecticidal soap in the early morning, repeating every 5–7 days until numbers drop.
How often should I water navy beans during the main growing phase?
During the main growth and flowering phase of Phaseolus vulgaris, keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged—aim for about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week, adjusting for heat and rainfall. Water at the base to keep foliage dry, and check moisture by feel: the top 1 inch should be slightly moist, not dry, between waterings. Irregular watering during flowering/pod set can lead to poor pod fill, so aim for consistent moisture through about midsummer.
When are navy beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) ready to harvest?
Harvest for dry beans when pods are fully mature and mostly dry, with seeds that feel hard inside the pod and rattle when shaken. Plants are typically ready around 90 days (varies by weather), but focus on pod dryness and seed hardness rather than the calendar. Pull plants on dry days, cure them in a warm, airy spot for about 1–2 weeks, then shell and store once fully dry to prevent mold.

Sowing Tips

Soil Temperature

Direct sow or transplant when soil at planting depth holds 60°F for reliable germination and early growth.

Expert Note

For dry navy beans, soil must be warm—sow after the risk of frost and keep beds evenly moist until emergence, then water less to encourage pod set.

Botanical illustration of Navy Bean

A deep, velvety hush of color—Navy Bean dries down to a smooth, uniform slate-blue that looks almost inked onto the seed coat. When rehydrated, the beans turn tender and creamy with a fine, even texture that holds its shape beautifully, making them a pantry staple you’ll reach for again and again. Grow this dependable bush bean for a steady harvest of classic dry beans—ideal for slow-simmered favorites, hearty soups, and satisfying bean-forward dishes.