Lima beans, those pale green or ivory legumes often associated with childhood dinner tables and mixed vegetable medleys, boast a rich history and surprising variety. While they’re known worldwide by various names, one particular moniker stands out: “Fordhook.” But why are some lima beans called Fordhook, and what’s the story behind this distinctive title? This article delves into the fascinating history of the Fordhook lima bean, exploring its origins, characteristics, and enduring popularity.
The Allure of the Lima Bean: A Brief Overview
Before diving into the Fordhook-specific narrative, it’s important to understand the broader context of the lima bean itself. Scientifically classified as Phaseolus lunatus, the lima bean is a legume native to the Americas. Evidence suggests that lima beans were cultivated as early as 6000 BC in Peru and Mexico, making them one of the oldest cultivated crops in the Western Hemisphere.
Lima beans are a nutritious food source, packed with protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. They come in two main varieties: bush and pole. Bush beans are compact and self-supporting, while pole beans are vining and require trellises or other supports to grow. The beans themselves vary in size, shape, and color, ranging from small, flat “baby” limas to larger, plump varieties.
Enter Fordhook: A Bean with a Purpose
The story of the Fordhook lima bean begins with a company dedicated to improving agriculture: the W. Atlee Burpee Company. Founded in 1876 by Washington Atlee Burpee, the company quickly rose to prominence as a leading seed and plant provider. Burpee’s commitment to quality and innovation led them to develop and introduce numerous improved vegetable varieties, including the Fordhook lima bean.
The W. Atlee Burpee Company: Pioneers in Seed Development
The W. Atlee Burpee Company wasn’t just about selling seeds; it was deeply involved in plant breeding and selection. They sought to create varieties that were more productive, disease-resistant, and adapted to different growing conditions. This dedication to improvement led to the development of several groundbreaking varieties that revolutionized home gardening and commercial agriculture. Washington Atlee Burpee himself was a keen observer and experimenter, traveling extensively to source new varieties and understand the needs of farmers and gardeners.
Developing the Fordhook: A Breeding Breakthrough
The Fordhook lima bean was introduced by the W. Atlee Burpee Company in 1907. It wasn’t just a random find; it was the result of careful breeding and selection. The goal was to create a bush lima bean variety that produced large, thick, and flavorful beans. One of the key features Burpee sought was heat tolerance, making the Fordhook a reliable producer even in warmer climates.
The name “Fordhook” itself is significant. It refers to Fordhook Farm, Burpee’s experimental farm located in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. This farm served as the central hub for Burpee’s breeding programs, where new varieties were tested and refined. Naming the lima bean “Fordhook” was a way of associating it with the company’s commitment to quality and innovation.
Characteristics of the Fordhook Lima Bean
The Fordhook lima bean quickly gained popularity due to its desirable characteristics. Here’s a closer look at what sets it apart:
- Bush Habit: As a bush variety, Fordhook lima beans don’t require staking or trellising. This makes them easier to grow in home gardens and smaller spaces.
- Large, Thick Beans: Fordhook lima beans are known for their size and plumpness. The beans are typically larger than other bush lima varieties, providing a more substantial yield.
- Heat Tolerance: One of the key advantages of the Fordhook lima bean is its ability to tolerate heat. This makes it a reliable producer in warmer climates where other lima bean varieties may struggle.
- Flavor: Fordhook lima beans are known for their rich, buttery flavor. Many gardeners and cooks prefer them for their superior taste compared to other lima bean varieties.
- Productivity: Fordhook lima beans are relatively productive, yielding a good crop of beans in a reasonable amount of time.
Fordhook 242: An Improvement on a Classic
Over time, the original Fordhook lima bean was further improved, leading to the development of Fordhook 242. This variety, introduced later, offered even better heat tolerance and disease resistance. Fordhook 242 remains a popular choice among gardeners and commercial growers today. The number 242 doesn’t signify anything other than the order in which it was tested.
The Enduring Popularity of Fordhook Lima Beans
The Fordhook lima bean has maintained its popularity for over a century. Several factors contribute to its enduring appeal:
- Reliability: Gardeners appreciate the Fordhook lima bean’s reliability. Its heat tolerance and disease resistance make it a consistent producer, even in challenging conditions.
- Flavor: The rich, buttery flavor of Fordhook lima beans is a major draw. Many people consider them to be the best-tasting lima bean variety available.
- Ease of Growing: As a bush variety, Fordhook lima beans are relatively easy to grow. They don’t require staking or trellising, making them a good choice for novice gardeners.
- Heritage Variety: For some, growing Fordhook lima beans is a way of connecting with the past. They represent a piece of agricultural history and a tradition of quality seed breeding.
From Fordhook Farm to Your Table: The Legacy Continues
The story of the Fordhook lima bean is a testament to the power of plant breeding and the dedication of companies like W. Atlee Burpee to improving agriculture. From its origins at Fordhook Farm to its presence on dinner tables around the world, the Fordhook lima bean has left a lasting legacy.
This bean is a reminder that behind every familiar food, there’s often a fascinating story of innovation, perseverance, and a commitment to quality. When you enjoy a plate of Fordhook lima beans, you’re not just eating a vegetable; you’re savoring a piece of agricultural history.
Growing Your Own Fordhook Lima Beans: A Gardener’s Guide
Want to experience the flavor and reliability of Fordhook lima beans firsthand? Here’s a quick guide to growing them in your own garden:
- Planting Time: Lima beans are warm-season crops, so plant them after the last frost when the soil has warmed up.
- Soil Preparation: Fordhook lima beans prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend your soil with compost or other organic materials before planting.
- Planting Depth: Sow the seeds about 1 inch deep and 2-3 inches apart.
- Spacing: Space rows of bush lima beans about 2-3 feet apart.
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilizing: Lima beans don’t require heavy fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer at planting time is usually sufficient.
- Harvesting: Harvest the beans when the pods are plump and the beans inside are fully developed.
- Pest and Disease Control: Keep an eye out for common pests and diseases, such as bean beetles and fungal infections. Use appropriate control measures as needed.
Growing Fordhook lima beans can be a rewarding experience, providing you with a delicious and nutritious harvest. And as you enjoy the fruits (or rather, legumes) of your labor, you can appreciate the history and dedication that went into creating this remarkable variety.
Why are Lima beans sometimes called Fordhook beans?
Fordhook is a specific variety of Lima bean, and the name often gets used interchangeably with Lima bean, especially when referring to the large, thick-seeded bush varieties. While “Lima bean” is the general term for the species Phaseolus lunatus, “Fordhook” represents a cultivated strain developed for superior qualities like productivity, disease resistance, and bean size. Think of it like “Golden Delicious” being a type of apple; Fordhook is a specific type of Lima bean.
The term “Fordhook” became popularized due to the success of the Fordhook 242 variety, developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and introduced in 1945. Its popularity and widespread cultivation led many people to associate the name “Fordhook” with all large, bush-type Lima beans, even though other varieties exist. It’s a case of a brand name (in a sense) becoming synonymous with the product category.
What is the origin of the name “Fordhook”?
The name “Fordhook” comes from the Fordhook Plant Introduction Station located in southeastern Pennsylvania. This station, operated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), was a significant center for plant breeding and development in the early to mid-20th century. Many new and improved varieties of various crops were developed and tested at Fordhook, including the famous Fordhook 242 Lima bean.
The USDA named the plant after the location where it was developed, a common practice to denote the plant’s origin and acknowledge the research conducted at the station. The name served as a marker of quality and innovation, representing the USDA’s efforts to improve agricultural crops for American farmers and consumers.
What makes Fordhook Lima beans different from other Lima beans?
Fordhook Lima beans, specifically the Fordhook 242 variety, are primarily known for their large size and thick seeds. This makes them different from smaller, thinner-seeded varieties often referred to as baby Lima beans or sieva beans. They also have a distinctive buttery flavor and creamy texture when cooked, which are highly valued by consumers.
Beyond their physical characteristics, Fordhook beans were initially bred for their disease resistance and high yield. This made them a more reliable and profitable crop for farmers. Their ability to thrive in various growing conditions further contributed to their popularity and widespread adoption.
Are Fordhook Lima beans only available as a bush variety?
Yes, Fordhook Lima beans are primarily associated with bush varieties. While there are both bush and pole (vine) types of Lima beans in general, the Fordhook name is usually connected to the compact, bush-type plants. This is because the original Fordhook 242 was developed as a bush bean, making it easier to cultivate and harvest commercially.
The bush habit of Fordhook beans means they don’t require staking or trellising, making them suitable for smaller gardens and large-scale farming operations alike. This characteristic, combined with their other desirable traits, solidified their position as a popular choice among growers.
When was the Fordhook 242 Lima bean developed?
The Fordhook 242 Lima bean was developed and introduced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in 1945. This occurred after extensive research and breeding programs at the Fordhook Plant Introduction Station in Pennsylvania. The goal was to create a superior Lima bean variety that offered improved yield, disease resistance, and bean quality.
The release of Fordhook 242 marked a significant advancement in Lima bean cultivation. Its success led to its widespread adoption by farmers across the United States, contributing to increased production and availability of this popular legume. Its development also highlights the important role of agricultural research in enhancing food security and improving crop varieties.
Are Fordhook Lima beans still grown today?
Yes, Fordhook Lima beans, although perhaps not always labelled as such, are still grown today. While newer varieties with even better characteristics have been introduced over time, the Fordhook 242’s legacy lives on, and many commercially available large, bush-type Lima beans are direct descendants or closely related varieties. The “Fordhook” name may also be used colloquially to refer to any similar large, bush-type Lima bean.
The lasting appeal of Fordhook beans stems from their excellent flavor and texture, combined with the convenience of the bush growth habit. While some gardeners and farmers may opt for more modern varieties with specific disease resistances or other improvements, the fundamental qualities of the Fordhook Lima bean continue to be appreciated.
How do you cook Fordhook Lima beans?
Fordhook Lima beans can be cooked in a variety of ways, including boiling, steaming, and baking. A common method involves simmering them in water or broth until tender, which usually takes around 30-45 minutes depending on their freshness. Soaking dried beans overnight can significantly reduce cooking time.
Many recipes call for adding aromatics like garlic, onions, or herbs to the cooking water to enhance the flavor of the beans. They can be enjoyed as a side dish, incorporated into soups and stews, or used as a filling for vegetarian dishes. Their creamy texture and buttery flavor make them a versatile ingredient in both simple and sophisticated meals.