Central Sierra: Bean Growing Instructions

Types of Beans

• Snap beans – Beans and pods eaten
• Filet or French Green Bean – more slender
• Shelled beans – Only the bean is eaten
• Dry Beans – Beans typically dried prior to rehydrating and eaten (pinto)

Bean Growth Classification

• Pole – Requiring support, Longer production period
• Bush – Not requiring support, Shorter production period
• Semi-bush - Intermediate

Planting & Harvesting Beans

1. Select planting location with well drained soils. If poor drainage plant on elevated rows (or mounds), or amend soil with sand and gravel.  Soil pH of 5.5-7 is optimum.
2. Initial planting after last estimated frost.
3. If variety will benefit from trellising place trellis prior to planting.
4. Plant seeds one inch deep.  Do not soak beans prior to planting.
5. Plant seeds 4 inches apart. Water in if soil is dry.
6. When plants reach top of trellis top off leading shoot.
7. Harvest every 2-3 days for maximum production.
8. Replant every 2-3 weeks for extending season.
9. Cut plant at base once production tappers off.  
10. Rotate planting location each season

Information provided by Dave Long, Lake Tahoe Master Gardener, 2024