Can beans be grown during fall?
Written by
Tina Carter
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Fall bean planting enables you to reap a harvest of crisp, cool-weather crops in the autumn months, something that too many gardeners do not realise is possible with beans, so productive are they during the summer months. I harvested basket loads of pods in October after selecting quick-maturing varieties; however, good results depend on proper timing and methods for protecting against frost.
Select bush varieties such as 'Provider' or 'Derby'. These mature in 50 days and are resistant to frost. Pole beans require long seasons. I plant seeds 2.5 cm (1 inch) deep in August, not the beginning of the month, because the ground needs to be above 10°C (50°F) before they will germinate. Cloches may be required.
Frost Defense System
- Install hoops with row covers when nights drop below 7°C (45°F)
- Use water walls around plants for thermal mass
- Remove covers daily for pollination and sunlight
Soil Temperature Management
- Apply dark mulch to retain summer heat
- Use soil thermometers at root depth
- Add cloches when temperatures approach 10°C (50°F)
Water differently in fall. With less foliage, plants require less frequent deep watering of the root zone - approximately 3cm (1.2in) every week. You are better off watering in the morning to avoid chilling the plant overnight. I add compost tea every second week for a little root stimulation and warmth. I generally stop fertilizing six weeks before the first frost.
Harvest beans before a heavy frost, for pods mature more quickly in cool weather. Always check the plants daily when the flowers open. Store the unwashed beans in perforated bags at 4°C. (39°F.), where they will keep for about two weeks. To store longer, blanch and freeze them immediately.
Read the full article: When to Plant Beans for a Bountiful Harvest
