What's the difference between bush and pole beans?
Written by
Julia Anderson
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Bush and pole beans are designed for separate gardening purposes. I had grown both types together in the same garden last year, and the bush beans supplied salad bowls, while the pole beans continued to produce until frost. Ultimately, which type is suitable will depend on your space, how long the season lasts, and your harvest intentions.
Bush Beans
- Compact plants: 12-24 inches tall
- Harvest in 50-60 days
- Ideal for containers and small beds
- No support needed
Pole Beans
- Vines climb 6-10 feet
- Produce for 60-90 days
- Require trellises or poles
- Yield 3x more per square foot
The quantity of space you have dictates your choices. My neighbor grows Blue Lake 274 bush beans in patio pots, and she gets 2 lbs per plant. I train the Kentucky Wonder pole beans on cattle panels. One panel will give me 15 lbs per year. Bush types run out after three weeks, yet these pole beans will produce beans until frost.
Short Seasons (Zones 3-5)
- Bush beans: 2 successions
- Pole beans: 1 early planting
- Use black plastic to warm soil
Long Seasons (Zones 6-10)
- Bush beans: 3-4 plantings
- Pole beans: continuous yield
- Shade roots with mulch in heat
Trellising is important for pole beans. Bamboo teepees are okay but rust after two seasons. I switched to galvanized steel arches, and they last for decades. Bush beans do not need any support but they do spread 18 inches wide. You should stagger your plants about 12 inches apart to reduce disease.
Read the full article: When Plant Beans: Expert Timing for Every Garden
