John B. Marek is a writer, farmer, outdoorsman and recovering economic developer. You can find his books at johnbmarek.com.
Green beans are among the most accessible, reliable and productive vegetables a gardener can plant. They thrive in, and generally improve, a wide variety of soils, are relatively disease resistant and, once beyond the seedling stage, are not attractive to most animals. Some varieties can even be grown in containers on a balcony or patio.
Like tomatoes, beans come in two general types based on their growth habit: bush and pole. In the backyard garden of my youth, my family fell into the bush bean camp. Dad would plant dozens of bean seeds every spring and the payoff would come mid-summer when we would enjoy delicious green beans fresh in our meals and can or freeze them for a splash of summer taste during the long Ohio winters.
The task of picking them fell on me from a relatively young age, and I always assumed my father wanted to engage me in the garden and instill an appreciation for its bounty. While that may indeed have been some of his intent, I recognize now, as I approximate my father’s age at the time, that I was also closer to the ground and required less back-contorting bending.
Pole beans, with their long, climbing vines, are a fantastic addition to any vegetable garden. They not only produce a delicious harvest but they also add a beautiful vertical element to your garden space. But before you plant, it’s essential to understand the difference between pole beans and bush beans and some of the specific advantages and challenges associated with each.
Bush beans grow to a mature height of one to two feet and don’t require any support structures. They mature quickly and produce their entire crop over two to three weeks, making them ideal for smaller gardens or those seeking a concentrated harvest for canning.
In contrast, pole beans are vigorous climbers that can reach eight to 10 feet tall. They require some kind of support structure, such as a trellis, teepee or fence, to climb on. However, their advantage lies in their extended harvest season. Pole beans produce beans continuously throughout the summer, allowing you to enjoy fresh beans over a longer period.
While they grow tall, pole beans take up minimal ground space since they grow vertically. This is perfect for gardeners with limited space or those who want to maximize their garden layout. Their vertical growth habit also allows for better air circulation around the plants, which can help to reduce the incidence of fungal diseases.
Of course, the challenge of pole beans is the support structure which adds an additional layer of cost and effort to garden prep and requires more advanced planning than bush varieties.
Pole beans are warm-season vegetables and are sensitive to frost. Wait until all danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature has reached a consistent 60°F (16°C) for optimal germination. In North Carolina, this typically occurs in late spring toward the end of April or early in May.
There are many different varieties of pole beans available, each with its own unique flavor, color and pod size. Popular choices include Blue Lake and Kentucky Wonder. Blue Lake is an interesting choice because both pole and bush varieties are widely available.
When planting, choose a location in your garden that receives at least six-eight hours of direct sunlight per day. Beans are a sun-loving plant and will generally do better with more sun. Although adaptable to different soil types, pole beans prefer well-draining, fertile soil. Amending your planting bed with compost or aged manure a few weeks before planting will help to ensure healthy plant growth.
Before you plant your beans, install your trellis, teepee or other support structure. A sturdy structure is essential for supporting the weight of the mature vines and bean pods. Aim for a structure that is at least six feet tall. Trellises designed specifically for beans can be purchased from most garden centers but can be cost-prohibitive if you are planting more than a handful of seeds. Alternatively, you can use sturdy branches or sticks pruned from your yard. Sharpen one end and push them securely into the ground. Tie cross beams made from similar branches or twine between the upright supports for added stability. You can also repurpose old fencing or a tomato cage. These can provide a sturdy support structure with minimal effort. You can even plant your pole beans next to a sturdy fence or existing structure in your garden. The bean vines will naturally climb up the fence as they grow.
Pole beans typically don’t transplant well, so it’s best to sow the seeds directly into the garden bed. Sow your seeds one-two inches deep and six-eight inches apart. If planting multiple rows, space the rows 24-36 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation.
Water your newly planted seeds thoroughly and keep the soil consistently moist throughout the germination period. As the plants mature they will require regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods.
Pole beans are not heavy feeders, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can be beneficial. Regularly remove weeds around your bean plants to prevent competition for water and nutrients.
Your pole beans will be ready to harvest when the pods are firm and have reached their full size, but before they become bulging or fibrous. Pick beans every few days to encourage continued production.
With proper planning and care, your pole beans will reward you with a bountiful harvest throughout the summer. So, plant high and enjoy the delicious rewards of these hearty climbing vegetables!