Pole Bean
Phaseolus vulgaris
Also known as: climbing bean, runner bean
Climbing bean variety that needs a trellis or pole support. Produces over a longer season than bush types.
Growing Requirements
Planting Schedule
Direct Sow (Spring)
1–9 weeks after last frost
Germination
5–10 days
Days to Harvest
55–70 days
Zone Suitability
USDA Hardiness Zones
Zones 3–10
Needs sturdy support 6-8 feet tall. Harvest regularly to extend production.
Companion Plants
Good Companions (7)
Corn
Zea mays
Three sisters: corn provides support; beans fix nitrogen
Confidence: High
Pumpkin
Cucurbita maxima
Three sisters: pumpkin shades soil; beans fix nitrogen
Confidence: High
Zucchini
Cucurbita pepo
Squash shades soil and retains moisture for beans
Confidence: Medium
Cucumber
Cucumis sativus
Beans fix nitrogen benefiting cucumbers
Confidence: Medium
Carrot
Daucus carota subsp. sativus
Beans fix nitrogen; compatible root depths
Confidence: Medium
Radish
Raphanus sativus
Quick-harvesting radish fills space between bean rows
Confidence: Medium
Marigold
Tagetes spp.
Nematode suppression in the root zone
Confidence: Medium
Antagonists (3)
Onion
Allium cepa
Allium compounds inhibit bean growth and nitrogen fixation
Confidence: High
Garlic
Allium sativum
Garlic inhibits bean growth and nitrogen fixation
Confidence: High
Fennel
Foeniculum vulgare var. azoricum
Fennel is allelopathic and inhibits bean growth
Confidence: High