How Tall Should a Pole Be for Pole Beans?

Many varieties of beans grow on poles that need to be set before the plant grows.

Poles Should Be At Least 6 Feet Tall

Poles for pole beans should be at least 6 feet tall. However, there are other factors for choosing the proper pole. Ideally poles should have a rough surface to allow the bean plant to grip it securely. You can lean multiple poles together and fasten them above the beans to provide a stable growing platform.

Other Options

Pole beans can grow well on other structures than poles. You can plant pole beans along with corn and simply allow them to grow up the cornstalk. You can also use vegetable cages to grow pole beans. Or suspend a string or wire between two poles on each end of a pole bean row to grow pole beans.

Bottom Line

Pole beans are a useful plant in the garden. They take up little space as they grow upward and the beans are easy to harvest as they are well above the ground. Choosing to grow pole beans on poles or other structures is a matter of personal preference.

References

• Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service: Growing Beans in the Home Vegetable Garden