Most likely someone dipped seeds from the wrong bin. They look more like Johnny's Garden of Eden. Certainly not picked too young. I am assuming that they are actually pole beans.

Thank you for your fast reply, Farmerdill. I quickly went online to look at Johnny's Garden of Eden picture. You're right that it certainly looks that way. Is it too late to order and plant some true fortex in southern California now?

Looking good. I don't know your climate. It is too hot for common beans in Georgia during July. sometimes planting them in mid- August for fall harvests works.

Just curious where you got the seed from? I'm growing a row of Fortex beans for seed to send to Sandhill Preservation. They are about a week from being ready to harvest. I've grown Fortex since 1988 and maintained my seed since then.

DarJones

Pennypond. Johnny's is a pretty good company. let them know you got the wrong seeds and I bet they will send you Fortex at no charge along with an apology.

Pennypond, I plant a late trellis of Fortex in July each summer. The possible issue in your area could be high temperatures.

Thank you for all of your replies. I have happily grown fortex for several years because it's always healthy, productive and tasty. Johnny's said they are sending replacement seeds, I'm keeping my fingers crossed for a true crop.