I used to always direct seed beans (and peas) because everywhere I read said that they do not transplant well because their roots don't like being disturbed. I also read that they grew better when directly sowed and it was not worth it to use transplants. However, I was always discouraged about how long and irregular germination occurred. I would reseed in blank spots and I also lost some seedlings to birds which I would reseed again. Then I saw a video that described how successful it was to start beans and peas indoors and transplant them out in two weeks. The first year I tried it was an amazing success! I will never direct seed again. I get much better and faster germination - I do not waste seeds! When I transplant them outside, they are so heathy and really take off, no transplant shock and they are large enough that the birds don't bother with them. And I get a two week jump start on the season! Win/Win!
I used to always direct seed beans (and peas) because everywhere I read said that they do not transplant well because their roots don't like being disturbed. I also read that they grew better when directly sowed and it was not worth it to use transplants. However, I was always discouraged about how long and irregular germination occurred. I would reseed in blank spots and I also lost some seedlings to birds which I would reseed again. Then I saw a video that described how successful it was to start beans and peas indoors and transplant them out in two weeks. The first year I tried it was an amazing success! I will never direct seed again. I get much better and faster germination - I do not waste seeds! When I transplant them outside, they are so heathy and really take off, no transplant shock and they are large enough that the birds don't bother with them. And I get a two week jump start on the season! Win/Win!