- Species and varieties: Medusa bean seeds belong to the Phaseolus vulgaris species, commonly known as common bean. This species includes a wide variety of beans, including kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans. The Medusa variety is a unique and rare variety, known for its distinctive, snake-like pods.
- Hybrid or heirloom: Medusa bean seeds are an heirloom variety. Heirloom seeds are open-pollinated, meaning they are pollinated by insects, birds, wind, or other natural means. Unlike hybrid seeds, heirloom seeds can be saved and planted year after year, producing plants that are true to type and consistent in their characteristics.
- Pruning and training: Medusa beans are bush beans and do not require staking or trellising. They do not typically require pruning, but removing diseased or damaged leaves can help promote healthy growth.
- Fertilization needs: Medusa beans benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied at planting time. They are a legume and can fix their own nitrogen, so a fertilizer low in nitrogen is best. Additional fertilization may be needed if the plants show signs of nutrient deficiency.
- Hardiness zones: Medusa bean seeds are suitable for growing in USDA hardiness zones 3-10. They are a warm-season crop and do best in temperatures between 60-85°F.
- Climate requirements: Medusa beans prefer a sunny location and well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant but do best with regular watering. They are not frost-tolerant and should be planted after the last expected frost in spring.