Canadian Cranberry is a traditional bush bean valued for its striking maroon-speckled seeds and exceptional adaptability to cooler climates. This variety has been selected for short season growth, making it a staple in Canadian prairie agriculture as it fits into their shorter growing season. Its distinctive cream and red mottled seeds are as beautiful as they are functional, offering gardeners both visual appeal and culinary excellence.

These beans are prized for their creamy texture and mildly nutty, slightly sweet flavour, often likened to chestnuts. They are ideal for slow-cooked dishes such as soups, stews and hearty casseroles, where they add both substance and a velvety finish to the broth. While most commonly used as a dried bean, Canadian Cranberry is also delicious when picked young for fresh shelling or even as tender green pods when harvested early.

Sow seeds directly into the soil once any risk of frost has passed and soil temperatures reach at least 18°C. Space seeds 5–8cm apart in rows 50–60cm wide, and plant them about 2–3cm deep. Expect germination in 7 to 10 days. Choose a sunny site with well-drained soil, and ensure consistent watering through flowering and pod development.

As a compact bush type, Canadian Cranberry does not require support and matures quickly, typically within 85 to 95 days. Pods should be left on the plant until dry and leathery, then shelled and stored in a cool, dry place. The beans retain their speckling when dry but fade slightly on cooking, keeping their rich taste and creamy texture.

To ensure optimal growth and productivity, inoculate seeds before sowing with SoyGro BeanFlo. This biological booster enhances nitrogen fixation, strengthens root development and improves overall soil health, supporting strong plants and abundant harvests.