Minimum Seed Count: 20

The Hidatsa Shield Bean is a traditional heirloom dry bean preserved by the Hidatsa people of the Northern Plains. Each bean has a distinct shield-shaped marking in tan and brown, giving it a unique patterned look. Plants grow as sturdy semi-runner vines—compact enough for small trellises, but productive enough to fill baskets at harvest. The beans have a rich, earthy flavor and hold their shape well when cooked, making them excellent for soups, stews, and long-simmered dishes. Reliable in heat, drought, and short-season gardens, this variety remains a favorite for growers wanting beauty, history, and dependable yield.

🌱 Planting Guide

When to Plant

• Direct sow after all danger of frost

• Soil temperature should be 60–70°F for fast germination

• Avoid cold, waterlogged spring soil

How to Plant

• Depth: 1 inch

• Spacing: 3–4 inches apart

• Rows: 18–24 inches apart

• Support: Benefits from a short trellis, netting, or tripod support (semi-runner habit)

Growing Conditions

• Light: Full sun (6–8+ hours/day)

• Soil: Well-draining, moderately fertile

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Beans prefer leaner soil—avoid heavy nitrogen fertilizers

Care Tips

• Keep soil evenly moist until flowering

• Once pods form, water a bit less to encourage healthy dry-down

• Mulch to prevent soil splash and maintain moisture

• Good airflow reduces mildew and disease

Harvest

For dry beans:

• Allow pods to fully dry and turn tan/brown on the vine

• Harvest when pods rattle and beans are hard

• Finish drying indoors if weather turns wet

For fresh shelling beans:

• Pick when pods are plump but still green

Storage

• Store completely dry beans in a cool, dry container

• For long-term storage: freeze beans 48 hours to eliminate pests