How to Build Bean Trellis

Some types of beans need a trellis to grow properly. Many home gardeners choose to grow bush beans for convenience, but others swear by the flavor of old-fashioned pole beans. Pole beans require a trellis, as they can grow more than 6 feet in height. Although pole beans will grow on any trellis, a tepee trellis is both functional and attractive.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 3 3-to-6 foot pole (1 1/2 to 2 inch diameter)
• Garden rope
• Wire

1. Stand three 3-to-6 foot poles up to create a tepee. Cross the tops of the poles and spread them out at the bottom. Wrap wire or rope around the top of the poles and tie it securely.

2. Spread the poles to create a circular base that's 3 feet in diameter at the ground. Push the ends of the poles into the soil to steady the tepee. Pack soil tightly around the base and tamp it down with your feet to prevent the tepee from moving in high winds.

3. Wrap and tie rope or wire around the outside of the tepee at 2-foot intervals. Weave the rope in and out around the poles to steady the structure and provide an area for the beans to cling. You can use grapevines to secure the tepee, if you prefer.

4. Plant beans around the base of the tepee. Train vines to climb the trellis by twisting them around the poles, as necessary.

References

• Pole Bean Tepee
• Tipi Trellis