Seeds: When properly stored, planted, and cared for, we guarantee reasonable germination and true-to-type growth for one year from purchase.
Non-seed products: Free from defects in materials and workmanship for 30 days from shipment.
Excludes factors outside our control (extreme weather, pests, gardener error). If something’s off, contact us—we’ll make it right with a replacement, repair, or refund.
USDA “bioengineered (BE)” foods are those with detectable genetic material that was modified using in vitro recombinant DNA (rDNA) techniques, in ways
not obtainable through conventional breeding or found in nature. The USDA’s National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard uses “bioengineered” as the nationwide labeling term.
Detectable modified genetic material in the final food
Created via in vitro rDNA techniques (e.g., gene transfer)
Modifications not achievable through conventional breeding or nature
—seeds / pkt
( ~ g )
Description
A vibrant twist on a beloved classic, Painted Pinto offers exceptional productivity and flavor with striking beauty to match. Bushy plants reach about 18–24 inches tall and produce heavy clusters of plump pods filled with beans marbled in tan, rose, and brown—each seed a unique canvas of natural color.
When cooked, the beans turn a rich beige and develop a creamy, earthy flavor with a slightly nutty sweetness. Perfect for refried beans, soups, and chili, they absorb seasonings beautifully and maintain their velvety texture even after long simmering.
Descended from heirloom pinto lines cultivated across the Americas for centuries, Painted Pinto combines traditional reliability with visual flair. It’s a favorite among gardeners who value high yield, adaptability, and the artistry of heritage seed varieties.
Location Selection: Choose a location with full sun for optimal growth. Beans thrive in warm, sunny areas.
Soil Preparation: Ensure the soil is well-drained and enriched with organic matter. Beans prefer loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Sowing Seeds:
Direct Sowing: Sow seeds directly outdoors in late spring after the danger of frost has passed. Plant seeds 1-2 inches deep and 3-4 inches apart in rows spaced 18-24 inches apart.
Germination: Seeds typically germinate within 7-14 days. Maintain consistent moisture levels in the soil during this period.
Care Instructions:
Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Beans do not tolerate drought well.
Fertilizing: Beans generally do not require much fertilization as they fix their own nitrogen. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which can promote excessive foliage growth at the expense of pod production.
Mulching: Apply a thin layer of mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pests and Diseases: Beans can be affected by pests such as aphids, bean beetles, and diseases like powdery mildew. Regular inspection and prompt treatment with appropriate organic or chemical controls are recommended.
Special Considerations:
Harvesting: Harvest beans when the pods are fully mature and the seeds inside are plump. For dry beans, allow the pods to dry on the plant before harvesting.
How to Grow — Common Bush Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris)
Once your bush beans have sprouted and established their first true leaves, their success depends upon consistent moisture, soil balance, and steady maintenance rather than heavy feeding or pruning. These are quick, productive plants that thrive on moderation and rhythm more than excess.
Soil Health & Root Care
Keep the soil light, open, and evenly moist, never compacted. Bush beans possess shallow, fibrous root systems that suffer from deep cultivation or crusted topsoil. Use mulch or light compost cover to suppress weeds and protect root zones. A half-inch layer of fine compost midseason replenishes nutrients and encourages microbial activity that supports nitrogen fixation at the roots.
Avoid excessive fertilization — bush beans form a symbiotic relationship with Rhizobium bacteria to create their own nitrogen supply. Overfeeding, especially with nitrogen-rich inputs, promotes dense foliage and delays flowering. Instead, focus on soil biology: earthworms, compost, and organic matter.
Watering & Moisture Regulation
Bush beans demand consistent, even watering through flowering and pod development. Supply roughly 1 to 1¼ inches per week, adjusting for rainfall. Deep watering every few days is far superior to frequent shallow sprinkling. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between sessions to encourage deeper rooting.
Water early in the morning so foliage dries quickly, reducing fungal pressure. If irrigation splashes soil onto leaves, mulch with straw, shredded bark, or aged compost to minimize disease spread. Avoid overhead watering once pods set, as this increases the risk of rust and bacterial blight.
Mulching & Temperature Moderation
Apply a 2–3 inch layer of organic mulch once the plants are 6 inches tall. Mulch regulates moisture, prevents weeds, and keeps soil temperatures stable. In hot regions, straw mulch prevents overheating; in cooler areas, black plastic or fabric mulch retains warmth and speeds growth.
Weed, Pest & Disease Management
Because bush beans mature rapidly, even mild stress can reduce yields. Keep the beds weed-free, especially in the first 4 weeks when roots are shallow. Avoid cultivating too deeply near the stems.
Inspect plants weekly for bean beetles, aphids, and leaf spot. At first signs of damage, use neem oil or insecticidal soap and handpick adults. Encourage beneficial predators like lady beetles and lacewings. Rotate bean crops annually — at least every 3–4 years — to reduce disease buildup in the soil.
For fungal control, ensure air circulation by spacing rows 18–24 inches apart. Remove any yellowing leaves promptly, and water at the base of plants rather than overhead.
Feeding & Midseason Care
After the first flush of blooms, top-dress rows with compost or worm castings. This provides a balanced, slow nutrient release to sustain pod set without excessive leaf growth. Avoid foliar sprays rich in nitrogen; instead, choose potassium- and phosphorus-dominant organic feeds if pods appear sparse.
A compost tea or diluted seaweed extract applied around bloom time boosts resilience and encourages abundant flowering.
Mid- to Late-Season Renewal
Bush beans often produce in waves. After the initial heavy harvest, trim back spent or yellowing foliage slightly and apply a shallow compost top-dress. Water deeply afterward to stimulate new shoots. With this treatment, many varieties yield a secondary flush before frost.
Remove mature pods promptly. Overripe pods on the plant signal completion of the life cycle, causing flowering to slow or cease. By keeping the plants clean and harvested, you extend their vigor and productivity.
General Growing Rhythm
Maintain steady moisture and avoid wide fluctuations.
Keep mulch in place from midseason onward.
Feed lightly but regularly through compost, not fertilizer.
Rotate beans with non-leguminous crops each year.
Remove diseased debris at season’s end to prevent overwintering pathogens.
Harvesting
Harvest when pods dry and seeds rattle. Pull entire plants before heavy rain and dry under cover for uniform curing.
Flavor & Culinary Notes
Classic creamy bean flavor with a nutty, earthy undertone. Perfect for refried beans, chili, and soups. Maintains smooth texture after cooking.
Handling & Storage
Store dry beans airtight, cool, and dark. Cooked beans refrigerate up to 5 days.
Growing & Maintenance
Support: Bush form.
Soil and feeding: Loamy soil with compost. Avoid excess nitrogen.
Watering: 1 inch weekly; consistent moisture needed during bloom.
Inoculation: Common bean inoculant.
Succession: Single sowing yields full season crop.
Seed Saving
Dry pods completely before threshing. Store seed cool, dry, and dark.
Container Tips
Grow 3 plants per 10-gallon container.
Common Pairings in the Garden
Good with carrots, marigolds, and cucumbers. Avoid onions.
Extended Season Care
Mulch and use row covers early for faster germination in cool climates.
Common Pests & Problems — Painted Pinto Bean
Insect Pests
Mexican Bean Beetle:
Adults and yellow larvae feed on the undersides of leaves, leaving a skeletonized pattern. Handpick regularly, apply floating row covers early in the growing season, and destroy infested debris to interrupt overwintering cycles.
Aphids:
Small sap-feeding insects that cause leaf curling and honeydew buildup, attracting sooty mold. Rinse with a strong jet of water or use neem oil or insecticidal soap. Beneficial insects such as lady beetles and hoverflies help suppress populations naturally.
Seedcorn Maggot:
Larvae attack germinating seeds in cool, damp soil. Wait for soil temperatures above 65°F before planting and avoid freshly manured areas.
Cutworms:
Feed at soil level, severing seedlings. Protect young plants with cardboard collars and keep planting areas clean and weed-free.
Spider Mites:
Thrive in hot, dry weather and cause stippling and bronzing on leaves. Keep soil evenly moist and rinse foliage occasionally to reduce populations.
Fungal and Bacterial Diseases
Anthracnose:
Dark, sunken lesions develop on pods and streaks form on stems. Use certified disease-free seed, rotate crops for 3–4 years, and avoid handling plants when wet.
Rust:
Reddish pustules form on leaves and stems, reducing vigor. Water at soil level, increase spacing for airflow, and remove infected foliage.
Bacterial Blight (Common and Halo):
Angular brown spots with yellow halos spread in wet conditions. Avoid overhead watering, disinfect tools, and promptly remove infected plants.
Root Rot (Rhizoctonia, Fusarium, or Pythium):
Leads to seedling damping off and stunted plants in soggy soil. Improve drainage and avoid overwatering.
Bean Mosaic Virus:
Causes mottled, puckered leaves and reduced yield. Control aphid populations and destroy infected plants immediately.
Physiological and Environmental Issues
Heat Stress:
Excessive heat above 90°F can halt flower production. Maintain even watering and provide light shade during high temperatures.
Cold Soil Germination Failure:
Painted Pinto beans prefer warm soil. Wait until soil exceeds 65°F for reliable sprouting.
Water Stress:
Inconsistent watering causes flower drop and poor pod fill. Mulch to retain moisture and water deeply once or twice weekly.
Nutrient Deficiency:
Yellow foliage or slow growth indicates nitrogen shortage or poor Rhizobium activity. Inoculate seeds before planting.
Integrated Management Tips
Rotate bean crops every 3–4 years with non-legumes to prevent soil-borne issues.
Water early in the morning at soil level to avoid leaf wetness.
Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Remove plant residues promptly after harvest.
Monitor weekly for beetles, aphids, and disease symptoms.
Q: What makes Painted Pinto beans unique?
A: Painted Pinto beans are distinguished by their speckled tan and brown markings and their rich, hearty flavor. They are one of the most versatile dry beans, known for their creamy texture and ability to absorb seasonings beautifully.
Q: Are Painted Pinto beans heirloom or hybrid?
A: They are an heirloom type of Phaseolus vulgaris, descended from Indigenous American cultivars that have been grown across the Southwest and Mexico for centuries.
Q: How long do Painted Pinto beans take to mature?
A: Expect maturity in about 85–95 days from direct sowing.
Q: What is the growth habit of Painted Pinto beans?
A: They are bush-type beans, compact and self-supporting, producing uniform pods close to the ground for easy harvest.
Q: What do Painted Pinto beans taste like?
A: They have a deep, earthy flavor and creamy texture, making them excellent for refried beans, chili, soups, and burritos.
Q: Are Painted Pinto beans good for canning or freezing?
A: Yes. They hold their texture well and are among the most commonly canned dry beans in both home and commercial settings.
Q: Are Painted Pinto beans drought-tolerant?
A: Yes. They are well adapted to hot, arid climates and continue to perform even under limited moisture.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Painted Pinto beans?
A: Full sun and well-drained soil with moderate fertility. Avoid high nitrogen, which encourages leafy growth over pod development.
Q: How should Painted Pinto beans be harvested?
A: Allow pods to dry fully on the plant before shelling. Dry beans can be stored in airtight containers for long-term use.
History & Culture — Painted Pinto Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris)
The Painted Pinto Bean is a colorful heirloom of Phaseolus vulgaris, belonging to one of the most recognizable bean types in the Americas. Pinto beans trace their ancestry to the highlands of Central and South America, where Indigenous peoples first domesticated the common bean more than 7,000 years ago. Through centuries of selection and trade, they diversified into countless regional landraces—each adapted to specific soils, climates, and culinary traditions.
The word “pinto,” meaning “painted” in Spanish, describes the bean’s mottled tan and brown seed coat. Spanish colonists introduced the name during the 16th century as they encountered the speckled beans cultivated throughout Mexico and the American Southwest. These varieties became integral to Indigenous and Mestizo cuisines, forming the foundation for many traditional dishes such as refried beans, stews, and soups.
The Painted Pinto represents one of the many regional heirlooms preserved for its flavor, adaptability, and visual appeal. Its marbled pattern embodies both its descriptive Spanish name and the long agricultural continuum connecting ancient American farmers with today’s growers and seedkeepers.
Saving seeds from Painted Pinto Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris):
1. Selecting Plants for Seed Saving:
Choose healthy plants with vigorous growth and abundant pods.
Avoid plants showing signs of disease or poor growth.
2. Harvesting Seeds:
Timing: Allow the pods to mature and dry on the plant.
Collection: Harvest the dry pods on a dry day.
3. Drying Seeds:
Place the pods in a well-ventilated, dry area. Allow them to dry completely for one to two weeks.
4. Cleaning Seeds:
Separation: Shell the dry pods to release the seeds.
Inspection: Ensure seeds are clean and free from mold or pests.
5. Storing Seeds:
Containers: Store seeds in labeled paper envelopes or airtight containers.
Storage Conditions: Keep in a cool, dry, and dark place.
Viability: Use seeds within two to three years for best results.
6. Testing Seed Viability:
Test by placing seeds on a damp paper towel in a plastic bag in a warm place and check for germination.
Tips for Successful Seed Saving:
Isolation: Maintain distance between different bean varieties.
Pollinators: Encourage pollinators for better seed production.
Record Keeping: Keep detailed records of the process.
Uses and Benefits:
Painted Pinto Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is a variety known for its beautiful markings and rich flavor. It is commonly used in Mexican cuisine, particularly in refried beans, soups, and stews.
Pinto beans provide protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, supporting overall health. Painted Pinto Beans are versatile in culinary applications, perfect for adding both flavor and visual appeal to dishes.
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Our seeds are grown and sourced from the US. They're then packed and shipped from Colerain NC.
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We regularly test the quality and germination rate of our seeds. We're so confident that our seeds are backed by a 1 year warranty!
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Alliance Of Native Seedkeepers
Bean Seeds - Bush - Painted Pinto
$200 USD
Unit price /
Unavailable
Description
A vibrant twist on a beloved classic, Painted Pinto offers exceptional productivity and flavor with striking beauty to match. Bushy plants reach about 18–24 inches tall and produce heavy clusters of plump pods filled with beans marbled in tan, rose, and brown—each seed a unique canvas of natural color.
When cooked, the beans turn a rich beige and develop a creamy, earthy flavor with a slightly nutty sweetness. Perfect for refried beans, soups, and chili, they absorb seasonings beautifully and maintain their velvety texture even after long simmering.
Descended from heirloom pinto lines cultivated across the Americas for centuries, Painted Pinto combines traditional reliability with visual flair. It’s a favorite among gardeners who value high yield, adaptability, and the artistry of heritage seed varieties.
