Growth & Development of a Bean Plant

Germination

• Germination occurs as dampness soaks the bean seed and softens the outer casing, known as the seed coat. The seed contains the embryo and a food source called the cotyledon. Within one week, most varieties of bean seeds begin sprouting as the seeds split open and a small tendril reaches upwards for the light, while another shoot emerges from the bottom and begins growing downward to form the roots.

Foliage

• Leaves begin to form on the bean stems within a few days. The leaves help the bean plant absorb sunlight for use as energy, a process known as photosynthesis.

Flowering Stage

• The initial phase of reproduction in bean plants involves the formation of flower buds. The buds open to display petals, stamens and pistols. As wind and insects transfer pollen among the plants, fertilization occurs.

Seeds

• As the blossoms wilt, seedpods begin to form on the bean plants. These pods can vary in size, but most contain numerous small seeds. As the pods dry and crack open, the small seeds fall to the ground, providing an opportunity for new growth. The entire lifecycle takes an average of 10 to 14 weeks, depending on the variety of the bean plant.