Bean Kentucky Wonder

Growing Climbing Beans

Climate and Timing:

• Planting Time: In temperate regions, late spring to early summer is best.
• In subtropical areas, you can plant beans from late winter to early autumn.
• Temperature: Beans thrive in temperatures between 15°C to 30°C. They require a frost-free period to grow effectively.

Soil Preparation

• Soil Quality: Ensure the soil is well-draining with good fertility. Beans prefer a neutral pH of 6 to 7.
• Improving Soil: Before planting, enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure. Beans fix nitrogen into the soil, but added organic matter supports initial growth.

Planting Process:

• Sow seeds directly once the danger of frost has passed.
• Plant seeds about 1 cm deep and space them 20 cm apart within rows 20 cm apart.
• If using a trellis or teepee system, space these supports accordingly before planting.

Support Systems:

• Use sturdy supports. Trellises, teepees, or poles work well.
• For trellises, orient them north to south to maximize sunlight exposure on both sides.

Watering and Maintenance:

• Watering: Regular watering is crucial, particularly during flowering and pod set.
• However, avoid waterlogging, which can drown roots or promote fungal diseases.
• Mulching: Apply mulch to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and reduce weed growth.

Fertilisation and Care:

• While beans generally do not require much fertilisation due to their nitrogen-fixing ability, a light application of a balanced organic fertiliser at the start of the growing season can help.
• Regularly inspect plants for signs of common pests like aphids or spider mites and manage with appropriate organic treatments if necessary.

Harvesting:

• Beans typically mature within 70 days after planting.
• Harvest when the pods are firm and before seeds inside begin to bulge, ensuring tender beans.
• Picking pods regularly encourages further production.

Companion Planting

Compatible Plants:

• Corn: Provides natural supports for beans to climb, forming a symbiotic relationship where beans fix nitrogen, boosting corn’s growth.
• Squash and Pumpkins: With their broad leaves, these plants help control weeds by shading the soil and maintaining moisture.
• Carrots and Radishes: Utilise vertical garden space efficiently, with roots growing underground while beans climb upward.
• Marigolds: Known for their pest-repellent properties, they attract beneficial insects and deter harmful nematodes.

Plants to Avoid:

• Alliums (Garlic, Onions): These can inhibit bean growth due to the production of chemicals that negatively impact bean roots.
• Beets: They compete for similar nutrients, potentially stunting each other’s growth.

Additional Tips:

Crop Rotation:

• Rotate beans with other crops to prevent pest buildup and improve soil nutrients.
• Avoid planting where legumes have grown in the past two years.

Pest and Disease Management:

• Implement pest control measures early. Use natural or organic pesticides if necessary, and encourage predators such as ladybirds.
• Prevent diseases through proper spacing to ensure good air circulation and by removing diseased plants promptly.