Climbing beans are a popular choice among gardeners who want to maximize their yield in limited spaces. These versatile legumes grow upward rather than spreading across the ground, making them ideal for vertical gardening. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner looking to try your hand at growing your own food, understanding which beans are climbing beans is key to successful cultivation.
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of climbing beans, exploring their characteristics, popular varieties, and the benefits of growing them. We’ll also provide tips on how to support these upward-growing plants and how to care for them throughout the growing season. Let’s get started!
What Defines a Climbing Bean?
Climbing beans, also known as pole beans, are characterized by their vigorous growth habit. These beans require support structures such as trellises, poles, or stakes to climb upwards. They typically grow much taller than bush beans and can reach heights of 6 to 10 feet (1.8 to 3 meters) or more.
Key Characteristics of Climbing Beans
- Vigorous, vining stems that twist around support structures
- Longer growth period compared to bush beans
- Continuous production of beans over several weeks
- More efficient use of vertical garden space
- Improved air circulation, which can reduce disease risk
Climbing beans are not only productive but also aesthetically pleasing, making them a functional and decorative addition to any garden.
Popular Varieties of Climbing Beans
There are many types of climbing beans, each with unique flavors, colors, and growth habits. These beans can be broadly categorized into snap beans (for green beans), shell beans (eaten when mature and dried), and dry beans (used after full maturation). Below is a list of some of the most common and well-loved climbing bean varieties.
1. Pole Snap Beans (Green Beans)
Pole snap beans are harvested when the pods are tender and green, typically before the seeds inside fully mature. They are prized for their crisp texture and flavor.
- Kentucky Wonder: Known for its long, flavorful pods and high yield, this variety is a favorite among gardeners.
- Native American Pole Bean: A heritage variety that produces slender, straight pods and thrives in warm climates.
- Scarlet Runner: A dual-purpose bean grown both for its edible pods and showy red flowers that attract pollinators.
2. Pole Shell Beans
Shell beans are harvested when the pods plump up but before they fully dry. The beans inside are then removed and cooked.
- Lima Pole Beans: Varieties like ‘King of the Garden’ are well-known climbers and produce large, creamy lima beans.
- Scarlet Runner Beans: Also popular for shelling, offering large, flat, flavorful beans that are high in protein.
3. Pole Dry Beans
Pole dry beans are allowed to mature and dry on the vine before harvesting. These beans are then stored for later use.
| Variety | Pod Characteristics | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|
| Red Kidney Pole Beans | Upright bushy vines with thick, sturdy pods | Best for slow-cooked dishes and chili |
| Anasazi Beans | Climbing vines with mottled red and white pods | Great for soups and traditional Native American dishes |
| Black Turtle Beans | Compact climbers producing small, dark pods | Ideal for Latin American and Caribbean cuisine |
Why Choose Climbing Beans over Bush Beans?
Though bush beans are easier to grow due to their self-supporting nature, climbing beans offer a number of compelling advantages, especially in small gardens or urban settings.
Space Efficiency
Climbing beans utilize vertical space instead of spreading horizontally. This allows gardeners to harvest more from limited ground area. A few pole bean plants can produce as much as a larger patch of bush beans.
Extended Harvest
Pole beans often have a longer fruiting period than bush beans. With proper care, they may produce fresh beans for up to two months, whereas bush varieties usually offer a shorter, more concentrated harvest period.
Better Air Circulation
Since climbing beans grow off the ground, they receive better air circulation, which helps reduce the likelihood of fungal diseases. This makes them a more resilient option in humid climates.
Visual Appeal
Many climbing bean plants, especially Scarlet Runner beans, add ornamental value with colorful flowers that attract pollinators like bees and hummingbirds. This can aid in boosting the overall productivity of the garden.
How to Grow Climbing Beans Successfully
To enjoy a plentiful harvest, it’s important to give climbing beans the right start and support system. Here’s a step-by-step guide to successful cultivation.
1. Choose the Right Location
Pole beans thrive in full sun and well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Make sure the planting spot receives at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
2. Prepare the Soil
Before planting, enrich the soil with compost or aged manure. Climbing beans prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–6.8). Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen, as this can promote lush vines but fewer beans.
3. Install a Support Structure
Climbing beans need sturdy structures to climb. Common supports include:
- Tepees made of bamboo stakes
- Wooden trellises
- Wire mesh or netting
- Metal poles or cattle panels
Ensure the support is at least 5–6 feet (1.5–1.8 meters) tall and securely anchored in the ground.
4. Plant the Seeds
Plant climbing bean seeds directly in the garden, around the base of the support structure. Sow 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) deep and 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) apart. Once seedlings emerge, thin them to about 6 inches apart, keeping the strongest plants.
5. Water and Mulch
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during flowering and pod development. Water at the base of the plants to prevent fungal diseases. Apply organic mulch (like straw or shredded leaves) to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
6. Fertilization and Pest Control
After the plants begin flowering, apply a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus-and-potassium fertilizer to encourage pod development. Monitor for pests like aphids, bean beetles, and spider mites. Use organic pest control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap as needed.
7. Harvest Regularly
Frequent harvesting encourages continued production. For snap beans, pick pods when they are young and tender, usually 55–65 days after planting. Shell and dry beans will take longer, often 70–100 days, and dry beans should be left to mature fully before harvesting.
Tips for Maintaining Healthy Climbing Bean Plants
Proper care is essential to keeping climbing beans healthy and productive from the start of the season through the end.
Support Structures That Work Well
Different structures yield different success rates. Here’s a comparison to help you choose:
| Type of Support | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Bamboo Tepee | Stable and natural look, easy to build | May need retying in windy areas |
| Wire Mesh Trellis | Durable and long-lasting, easy access for picking | Can be expensive or hard to customize |
| Cattle Panel | Very sturdy, flexible for various garden layouts | Heavy to install, may rust over time |
Companion Planting Tips
Climbing beans grow well with plants like corn and squash, forming the traditional ‘Three Sisters’ planting system used by Native Americans. Corn provides a natural pole, squash shades the soil to retain moisture, and beans fix nitrogen in the soil, benefiting all three crops.
Avoid planting beans near onions, garlic, or fennel, as these may inhibit their growth.
Weather Considerations
Climbing beans are frost-sensitive and grow best in warm temperatures, typically between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 29°C). Plant only after the danger of frost has passed.
In hot regions, providing partial afternoon shade can help prevent flower drop and reduce stress on plants.
Organic Cultivation and Sustainable Practices
Climbing beans are excellent candidates for organic gardening due to their natural fertility benefits and adaptability to natural pest control methods. Rotate crops yearly and avoid planting in soil where beans were grown the previous season to reduce disease buildup. Cover crops and compost can help maintain soil fertility without synthetic inputs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Growing Climbing Beans
Even with the best intentions, many gardeners make the following mistakes that can affect the performance of climbing beans.
1. Poor Support System
Weak or insufficient supports will not hold up vigorous climbing vines properly. This can lead to sprawling plants that become tangled and difficult to manage.
2. Planting Too Early
Beans do not respond well to cold soil or frost. Planting before the ground has warmed can lead to poor germination or seedling death.
3. Overcrowding Plants
Tightly packed rows reduce air circulation, increasing the risk of disease and reducing sunlight exposure. Always follow spacing recommendations for each variety.
4. Irregular Watering
Climbing beans need consistent moisture, especially during flowering and pod formation. Inconsistent watering can result in fewer pods and blossom drop.
5. Letting Beans Get Too Big
If you’re harvesting snap beans, leaving pods on the plant too long makes them tough and fibrous. Picking regularly encourages more flowering and more pods.
From Garden to Table: Using Climbing Beans in the Kitchen
Climbing beans are not only productive but versatile in the kitchen. Whether eaten fresh as green beans, shelled for creamy goodness, or dried for hearty stews, they offer excellent nutrition and flavor.
Green Bean Recipes
Fresh pole snap beans can be steamed, sautéed, roasted, or added to soups and salads. Try recipes like:
- Garlic Butter Green Beans
- Green Bean Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup
- Asian Style Stir-Fried Beans with Sesame and Soy
Shell Bean Dishes
Fresh shell beans have a sweet, nutty taste and are excellent in soups, pastas, or as side dishes. Popular uses include:
- Creamy Lima Bean Bisque
- Tomato-Braised Scarlet Runner Beans
- Lima Bean and Bacon Succotash
Dry Bean Inspiration
Once fully dried, pole beans can be stored for months and used in slow-cooked meals:
- Spiced Black Bean Chili
- Three-Bean Minestrone Soup
- Creole Red Beans and Rice
Including climbing beans in your garden and kitchen cycle provides a sustainable source of protein, fiber, and vitamins — and often at a fraction of the cost of store-bought legumes.
Final Thoughts: Climbing Beans Are Worth the Effort
Whether you’re looking to grow vegetables vertically, extend your harvest season, or simply enjoy more yield from less space, climbing beans are excellent additions to any garden. From snap beans to dry beans, these vining plants offer countless options for productive, enjoyable gardening.
By understanding which beans are climbing beans — and how to grow and support them properly — you can enjoy lush, thriving plants and bountiful harvests. With a bit of planning and care, your climbing bean garden can become one of the most productive parts of your backyard.
So roll up your sleeves, build a support system, and watch your climbing beans reach for the sky!
What are climbing beans and how are they different from bush beans?
Climbing beans, also known as pole beans or runner beans, are varieties that grow vertically using supports such as trellises, stakes, or poles. Unlike bush beans, which grow in compact, upright bushes and do not require any support, climbing beans develop long vines that can reach several feet in height. These beans typically take longer to mature than bush beans, but they often yield more over a longer harvesting period, making them a popular choice for gardeners seeking productivity and efficient space usage.
Climbing beans are commonly categorized into two main types: common pole beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), which include many heirloom and commercial varieties, and runner beans (Phaseolus coccineus), which are known for their striking flowers and are often grown both for their ornamental and edible qualities. Understanding the difference between climbing and bush beans helps gardeners choose the best type for their specific growing conditions, garden layout, and harvest goals.
Which types of beans are considered climbing varieties?
There are several well-known climbing bean varieties suited for vertical gardening. Some popular pole beans include ‘Kentucky Wonder’, ‘Blue Lake’, and ‘Climax’, which are prized for their tender pods and high yields. Runner beans like ‘Scarlet Runner’ and ‘White Emergo’ also exhibit strong climbing tendencies and are often grown for both their edible pods and vibrant flowers. Additionally, some heirloom varieties such as ‘Romano’ or ‘Four Seasons’ fall into the climbing category and offer unique flavor profiles.
It’s also worth noting that certain legumes often grouped with beans, such as yardlong beans (Vigna unguiculata sesquipedalis), are vigorous climbers and require similar vertical support systems. When selecting climbing bean varieties, consider your climate, the support structures you have available, and your intended use—whether for fresh eating, drying, or ornamental appeal. Knowing your options ensures you choose the right climbing beans for your garden.
Why should I grow climbing beans vertically?
Growing climbing beans vertically offers several advantages, especially in terms of space efficiency and productivity. Vertical gardening allows you to maximize a small garden footprint, making climbing beans ideal for urban gardens, raised beds, or backyard plots with limited horizontal space. As the vines grow upward, they utilize sunlight more effectively and reduce overcrowding, which can help minimize the risk of fungal diseases caused by poor air circulation.
Furthermore, vertically grown climbing beans are often easier to harvest because the pods are more visible and accessible. This method also reduces the chance of pests damaging the beans and makes it easier to monitor plant health. Additionally, climbing beans can be trained to grow over arbors or trellises, which can provide shade for other crops or enhance the aesthetics of your garden. Overall, vertical growth supports healthier plants and a more enjoyable gardening experience.
What kind of support structures do climbing beans need?
Climbing beans require sturdy support structures to grow effectively and reach their full potential. Common options include bamboo tepees, wooden stakes, metal poles, trellises, arbors, or even chicken wire fencing. The most successful support systems are tall—ideally between 5 to 7 feet—since climbing beans can grow quite long and benefit from ample upward space to twine around the structure.
It’s important to install the support at the time of planting to avoid damaging the roots later. The structure should be strong enough to hold the weight of mature vines and bean pods, especially in windy conditions. For aesthetics and functionality, many gardeners create teepee-shaped supports using long poles tied together at the top, allowing multiple plants to grow around each pole. Choosing the right support not only ensures healthy growth but also adds structure and visual interest to your garden.
How do I plant and care for climbing beans in a vertical garden?
To plant climbing beans, begin by installing your chosen support structure, then sow seeds directly at its base. Plant 4 to 6 seeds per pole or trellis, about 1 to 1.5 inches deep, and water thoroughly. Once seedlings have a few true leaves, thin them to the strongest 2 or 3 plants per pole. It’s best to plant after the last frost date when the soil has warmed, as climbing beans are sensitive to cold.
Caring for climbing beans involves regular watering, especially during flowering and pod development, and fertilizing lightly at planting time—too much nitrogen can promote leaf growth at the expense of beans. Monitor for pests like aphids and bean beetles, and provide mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature. As the beans grow, gently guide the vines toward the structure if needed. With consistent care, climbing beans will thrive and provide a bountiful harvest throughout the season.
When is the best time to harvest climbing beans?
Climbing beans are best harvested when the pods are still tender and before the beans inside become too prominent. Generally, this occurs between 60 to 70 days after planting for snap beans, though drying beans and runner beans may take longer. Regular harvesting encourages continuous production, so picking pods every few days can help prolong the yield. The ideal time to pick is early in the morning when the beans are crisp and full of moisture.
It’s important not to wait too long between harvests, as overgrown pods can become fibrous and less flavorful. Use both hands to avoid damaging the vines—one to hold the stem and the other to gently pull the pod. Drying beans, which are left on the vine until mature and hardened, should be harvested after the foliage has died back and the pods are dry and brown. Knowing when to harvest ensures the best flavor and quality from your climbing bean plants.
Can climbing beans be grown in containers and raised beds?
Yes, climbing beans can be successfully grown in containers and raised beds as long as they receive enough vertical support and adequate growing conditions. Choose a deep container—at least 12 to 18 inches deep—to allow for proper root development. Use a lightweight, well-draining potting mix and provide a sturdy trellis, bamboo poles, or a cage for the vines to climb.
For raised beds, arrange support systems to avoid overcrowding other plants and ensure full sun exposure. Climbing beans can also be interplanted with compatible crops like corn or squashes, mimicking a Three Sisters-style garden. Containers should be watered more frequently due to faster evaporation, and nutrient needs can be met through regular applications of a balanced fertilizer. With thoughtful planning and care, climbing beans can thrive in both containers and raised beds, making them a versatile choice for various garden spaces.