Planting:
In the Spring, plant beans after all danger of frost has passed. In the Fall, plant beans 10 to 12 weeks before the first expected frost. For large plots, use ¼ to ½ pound of seed for each 100 feet of row of green beans. Plant pole beans in hills about 3 feet apart in the row. Space the rows about 3-4 feet apart. Place a 6-8-foot stake in the center of each hill. Plant 3-4 seeds around the stake about 1 inch deep in the soil. Planting in moist soil is best for seeds to germinate and emerge quickly.
| Planting Depth: | 1 inch |
Within-Row Spacing:
| 3 feet
|
Between-Row Spacing:
| 3-4 feet
|
Watering: Water the plants about once a week in dry weather. Try not to let the soil dry out while the beans are blooming or the blooms will drop and yields will be decreased.
Weeding: The roots of beans grow near the soil surface. When hoeing and pulling weeds, try not to dig too deep to prevent the plant's roots from damage.
Fertilizing: As the plants begin to flower and set beans, you may optionally apply fertilizer to help plants produce more beans. Apply by scattering between the rows about 1/2 cup of fertilizer for every 10 feet of row. Water the plants after fertilizing.
Insecticides: Insecticides may be used to protect plants. Bt-based insecticides and sulfur are organic options. Sulfur also has fungicidal properties and helps in controlling many diseases. Before using a pesticide, read the label and always follow cautions, warnings and directions.
Diseases: Diseases may be a possibility during cool, wet weather. If spots appear on leaves or bean pods, treat the plant with an approved fungicide. Neem oil, sulfur, and other fungicides may be used.
Pick beans when they are about 6 inches long and as thick as a pencil for best taste. If beans are picked, the plants will continue producing for several weeks. Beans are over-mature if they are tough, dry, fading in color, or stringy. Fresh beans can be frozen or stored in a refrigerator for a week.