Growing Beans in Containers

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Pole Beans vs Bush Beans

I was today years old when I discovered that beans are ridiculously easy to grow, and once established, they’ll produce all season long! As a small-space container gardener, I’m always on the hunt for the next best thing to grow on my balcony. When I came across beans, I thought I’d hit the jackpot! They’re compact, simple to grow, yield consistently, and… I LOVE BEANS! I mean, what Hispanic doesn’t?

So, how do you get started growing your own beans? Are some types better than others? Let’s dive into the best beans to grow, container tips, and the nitty-gritty details you didn’t even know you needed to grow AWESOME beans.

The Two Categories of Beans

First things first: beans fall into two main categories—pole beans (climbing) and bush beans (non-climbing). All beans grow inside “pods,” which can be harvested green or dried, depending on the type you choose. But their growth habits differ:

• Pole Beans: These grow as climbing vines and can reach up to 20 feet, depending on the variety. They’re super productive but need a trellis for support, making them a bit more space-intensive.
• Bush Beans: These grow in a more compact, linear form, reaching about 5 feet. They don’t require a trellis but can benefit from a stake for support.

Which you choose depends on your space, investment level, and bean preference. For example, most green beans are pole beans, while dry (shelling) beans can be found as either pole or bush types. The good news? Both grow well in similar conditions—so keep reading!

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Container Size

Both pole and bush beans thrive in containers. Opt for a container that’s deeper rather than wider. A 4-5 gallon container works perfectly, providing ample room for roots to spread. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Spacing: Space seeds about 4” apart. In a 5-gallon container, you can fit 3-4 plants, especially pole beans, which don’t take up much space at the base.
• Transplanting: Beans hate being transplanted. Sow them directly in their final container. If you must transplant, do so as soon as they sprout to minimize shock.
• Drainage: Make sure your container has drainage holes. Drill extra if needed. I prefer plastic containers because they’re easy to modify and lightweight.

If you’re unsure about containers, check out my guide to container types for more info.

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Trellis/Support

• Pole Beans: These need sturdy vertical supports. Trellises can be fancy or simple, like bamboo sticks placed at the plant’s base. Most pole beans naturally climb, so you don’t need to train them.
• Bush Beans: A full trellis isn’t necessary. A simple stake or thin branch works just fine. Tie the plant loosely to the support to avoid stress.

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Soil

Beans are famously low-maintenance and grow in almost any soil type, making them great for kids or beginners. Still, investing in quality soil will yield healthier plants.

• Recommended Soil: Use a container mix designed for vegetables or fruits. It’ll contain organic material and nutrients for longer-lasting support.
• DIY Option: Check out my DIY potting mix recipe for a cost-effective alternative.
• Warmth: Beans love warm soil, so wait until frost danger has passed, or start them indoors.

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Sun Exposure/Watering

Once they get going, beans need water! Give them 2-3 inches of water per week, especially in hot summers. Keep the top 25% of the soil dry before watering thoroughly.

• Tips: Water close to the base to prevent leaf splash, which can lead to powdery mildew.
• Sunlight: Full sun is ideal. If you’re in a hot climate, choose heat-tolerant varieties.

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Disease/Pests

Beans are susceptible to certain diseases and pests, but starting with healthy seeds and proper care can make all the difference. Here are the main culprits:

• Powdery Mildew: Looks like white powder on leaves. Prevent by planting disease-resistant varieties and watering at the base.
• Common Blight: Brown and yellow leaf spots. Avoid by watering properly and planting disease-free seeds.
• Rust: Causes leaves to turn yellow or brown. Prevent by planting during dry seasons and keeping leaves dry.
• Aphids: Sap-sucking pests that weaken plants. Companion planting and introducing ladybugs help.
• Mexican Bean Beetle: Yellow with black spots, this pest skeletonizes leaves. Rotate crops and encourage predators like ladybugs.

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Best Bean Varieties

Pole Beans:

• Lazy Housewife Bean: Great for zones 3-11; prolific and can be harvested as green or dry beans.
• Kentucky Wonder Bean: Easy to grow, productive, and thrives in zones 3-11.
• Scarlet Runner Bean: Gorgeous red flowers; tolerates cooler temps. Best for zones 7-11.
• Purple Podded Pole: Stringless, tender, and ornamental. Zones 3-11.
• Puerto Rican Black Beans: Prolific and disease-resistant. Great in warmer zones 7-11.

Bush Beans:

• Blue Lake: Popular stringless green beans. Zones 3-9.
• Royal Burgundy: Purple pods that turn green when cooked; great for cooler climates.
• Calypso Bush Beans: Black-and-white dry beans. Warm zones preferred.
• Fordhook Bush Lima Beans: Classic lima beans for freezing or canning.
• Tendergreen Bush Beans: Short season, heat/disease-tolerant. Great for zones 3-9.

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Step-by-Step: Sowing Beans in Containers

1. Soak beans overnight.
2. Select a 4-5 gallon container with good drainage.
3. Use high-quality soil (store-bought or homemade).
4. Plant seeds 1” apart in their final container. Thin to 3 plants, spacing them 2” apart.
5. Add worm castings at the base once true leaves appear.
6. Keep soil moist and ensure full sun exposure.
7. Harvest beans as needed based on variety.

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Now you’re all set to grow your very own container beans! Whether you’re a bush bean beginner or a pole bean pro, there’s nothing more satisfying than harvesting fresh beans from your balcony or backyard. Happy planting!

Have you tried growing beans in containers? Share your journey below! If something went wrong let’s try troubleshooting together!

Happy growing!