Johnny's and others have a purple asparagus bean that is beautiful and productive. The color doesn't fade when the "snaps" are blanched, so they are a fun and colorful addition to the freezer. Last year I grew a green variety and I think I like the purples better from a culinary point of view. These guys need a high trellis, as high as you can reach to pick. The vines will double back on themselves and keep producting on a 7-8 foot trellis. You eat it as a mature legume, either mature green or dried, but I really like Peking Black (Vigna) from Southern Exposure. It's a half-runner that will twine to about 4 feet when given sticks or other support. Last year I grew it up widely spaced sudex and they formed a beautiful partnership.

Pardon me for asking, but I'm curious, why would you can dried beans instead of just cooking them when you are ready to use them? For a quick meal maybe? I agree with Dave on his preference of the Great Northern beans. I think they are the best tasting white bean. I like the Anasazi also, but I can't tell much difference on the "gassy" part, I love beans, but I can look at a bean and get gas! ;) That reminds me, I need to order some Anasazi seed, I lost mine last summer due to the cool wet weather.

Thank you Emmers and Darjones, for your replies, blue lake I found locally and will go and get them in the morning along with other supplies for the garden. The rattlesnake pole will be harder to get around here. I live 7 miles from the Mexican Border and beans are Mexicos main dish, so I find it funny that I can't find beans at the stores. I am planning on planting black beans since they are in my pantry and are my favorite. As I said I have never planted beans before so I am a little inexperienced in this area. My question is this, blue lake I believe is a bush bean, Correct? How much room do I need per plant and does it get tall or wide? The pole beans, are they climbing beans and do I need a trellis for them? I am hoping to find some yard long beans. I have to say, I am really excited about planting beans. Oh one more question, can I plant them in large pots or is it best in the ground? Thanks, Josie

I'll second Emerite, but will add these as further possibilities. Kentucky Wonder Rattlesnake Blue Marbut Black Seeded Blue Lake You didn't mention whether you prefer pole or bush beans. Contender Florence Festina DarJones