Bean plants are fantastic because of just how variable they are. They are cooked in hundreds of different ways in traditional cuisines around the world.
Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about bean plants!
Growing Bean Plants
First, learn how to plant bean plants. Then explore all the different varieties you can include in your garden!
Finally, find some Companion Plants For Beans to keep them company! Check back often, because we’re always updating our bean content with more guides and info posts!
Bean Plant Varieties
Take a look at some of my favorite bean plant varieties:
Adzuki Beans
Aquadulce Fava Beans
Asparagus Beans
Black Garbanzo Beans
Black Soybeans
Black Turtle Beans
Black Valentine Bush Beans
Blue Lake Bush Beans
Blue Lake Pole Beans
Contender Bush Beans
Dark Red Kidney Beans
Divine Golden Wax Beans
Edamame Beans
Fava Beans
Fordhook Lima Beans
Garbanzo Beans
Gold Rush Beans
Green Beans
Henderson Lima Bean
Hyacinth Bean Vines
Jade Bush Beans
Kentucky Blue Pole Beans
Kentucky Wonder Pole Beans
Kidney Beans
King of the Garden Lima Beans
Lima Beans
Mexican Pinto Beans
Midori Giant Soybean
Mung Beans
Pink Half Runner Beans
Pinto Beans
Provider Bush Beans
Purple Hyacinth Bean
Rattlesnake Pole Beans
Red Kidney Beans
Red Noodle Beans
Rich Mountaineer Half Runner Beans
Roma II Beans
Royal Burgundy Beans
Ruby Moon Hyacinth Bean
Purchase Bean Seeds!
Beans FAQ
When is the best time to plant beans?
Beans are a warm-season crop that should be planted after the last frost date in your area. They prefer a location with full sun and well-draining soil. Sow the seeds 1 to 2 inches deep and 3 to 4 inches apart. Water the soil gently and keep it moist until the seedlings emerge.
How do I plant beans?
To plant beans, sow the seeds 1 to 2 inches deep and 3 to 4 inches apart. Water the soil gently and keep it moist until the seedlings emerge. Once the seedlings have their first true leaves, thin them to a spacing of 6 to 8 inches apart.
When should I harvest beans?
Beans can be harvested when the pods are fully developed and the seeds inside are plump. This is typically 50 to 60 days after planting for bush beans and 70 to 80 days after planting for pole beans. It is important to harvest beans regularly to encourage continued production.
How do I harvest beans?
To harvest beans, gently pull the pods off the plant. For bush beans, harvest the entire plant when the majority of the pods are ready. For pole beans, harvest the pods as they mature and continue to produce throughout the season.
How do I care for beans?
To care for beans, water them deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, and weed thoroughly. Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks. Provide support for pole beans to climb, such as a trellis or stakes.
How can I prevent pests and diseases in my bean plants?
To prevent pests and diseases in your bean plants, practice good garden hygiene by removing plant debris and weeds. Use row covers to protect the plants from pests and diseases. Rotate the bean crop every year to prevent the buildup of soil-borne diseases and pests. Additionally, choose disease-resistant varieties and avoid overcrowding the plants, which can lead to increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
How can I use beans in cooking?
Beans can be used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, salads, and dips. They can also be roasted or sautéed as a side dish. Choose dried or canned beans and rinse them thoroughly before using. Experiment with different varieties of beans, such as black beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas, to find your favorite flavors and textures.
How can I grow beans vertically?
To grow beans vertically, provide a trellis, stakes, or a teepee for the plants to climb. Plant the beans at the base of the structure and train the vines to climb up. This will save space in the garden and make harvesting easier.
Can beans be grown in containers?
Yes, beans can be grown in containers. Choose a compact variety of beans and use a well-draining potting mix. Provide support for pole beans to climb, such as a trellis or stakes. Water the plants regularly and fertilize them with a balanced fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks. Harvest the pods as they mature and continue to produce throughout the season.
Grow Some Bean Plants!
We hope this guide has set you well on your way to growing your own magnificent bean plants. Check back often, because we’re always updating out content!
In the meantime, discover more of nature’s goodies:
