Planting advice for the USA & Canada, Zone 8a

January: Do not grow.

February: Do not grow.

March: Do not grow.

April: Start undercover in seed trays.

May: Transplant 4-6 week old seedlings.

June: Plant seed directly into garden.

July: Do not grow.

August: Do not grow.

September: Do not grow.

October: Do not grow.

November: Do not grow.

December: Do not grow.

Space Plants: 10cm (4") apart.

Harvest In: 7-10 weeks.

Grows Best With: Celery, Cilantro, Corn, Cucumbers, Eggplant, Ginger, Lettuce, Peas, Radishes, Rosemary, Squash, Strawberries, Swiss Chard, Zucchini.

Avoid Growing With: Chives, Garlic, Leeks, Onions, Scallions.

Planting Green Beans

There are two main varieties of green beans; bush beans (or dwarf beans) and pole beans. Bush beans grow to be a short bush, whereas pole beans grow on vines and will require support such as a trellis. Green beans have sensitive roots and should be direct sown into the garden after your last frost date. Plant seeds 2cm (1") deep, next to a support if planting pole beans, 10cm (4") apart with 45cm (18") between rows. Green beans prefer well-draining soil and thrive in full sun.

Growing Green Beans

As green beans have shallow roots, mulching around the plant will help retain moisture and keep the roots cool. Keep the soil moist but not wet, as inconsistent or insufficient watering will prevent flowers from developing. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers, as green beans produce a lot of nitrogen naturally; if necessary, add compost around the plants after the first harvest. Once pole beans reach the top of the support, pinch out the top to force the plant to focus on producing more green beans.

Harvesting Green Beans

Green beans should be harvested while they're still tender and while the seeds are still immature; roughly the width of a pencil for most varieties. Harvesting often will encourage the plant to produce more green beans. Store green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

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