Choosing the Right Green Beans
When it comes to container gardening, green beans are a popular choice due to their ease of growth, high yield, and delicious flavor. However, with so many varieties of green beans available, it can be challenging to determine which type is the best fit for your container garden.
Bush vs. Pole Beans
The first decision you’ll need to make when choosing green beans for container gardening is whether to opt for bush or pole varieties. Bush beans are compact and grow in a rounded shape, while pole beans are tall, vine-like plants that require a trellis or other support structure.
If you have a limited amount of space in your container garden, bush beans may be the better option, as they tend to take up less room. However, if you have a larger container, or if you prefer the taste of pole beans, these plants can be an excellent choice for container growing.
Heirloom vs. Hybrid
Once you’ve decided on bush or pole beans, you’ll need to choose between heirloom and hybrid varieties. Heirloom beans are open-pollinated and have been passed down through generations of gardeners, while hybrid beans are a cross between two different parent plants.
While heirloom beans are often prized for their unique flavors and histories, hybrid varieties tend to be hardier and more resistant to disease. Consider your priorities when selecting your green bean variety, whether it’s taste, ease of growth, or other factors.
Best Green Bean Varieties for Container Gardening
Now that you know what to look for when selecting green beans for your container garden, let’s take a closer look at some of the best varieties for this type of growing environment.
Blue Lake Bush Beans
Blue Lake bush beans are a popular choice for container gardening due to their compact size and high yield. These beans grow to about 18 inches tall and produce an abundant crop of tender, flavorful pods.
Kentucky Wonder Pole Beans
If you’re looking for a pole bean variety, Kentucky Wonder is a classic choice. These beans are known for their delicious flavor and high yield, and they grow to be about 6 to 8 feet tall. Be sure to provide a sturdy trellis or other support structure for these vines.
Provider Bush Beans
Provider bush beans are another excellent choice for container gardening. These beans produce a large number of tender, stringless pods and have a fairly short growing season, making them a good option for gardeners with limited time.
Scarlet Runner Pole Beans
If you want to add a pop of color to your container garden, consider Scarlet Runner pole beans. These plants produce bright red flowers and large, flat beans with a slightly nutty flavor. They grow to be about 8 to 10 feet tall and require a sturdy support structure.
French Filet Bush Beans
For an elegant, gourmet touch to your container garden, try French Filet bush beans. These thin, delicate beans are often used in fine dining and have a rich, buttery flavor. They grow to be about 18 inches tall and are widely available from seed companies.
Tips for Growing Green Beans in Containers
Once you’ve selected your green bean variety, it’s time to start growing! Here are some tips to help ensure a successful container garden:
- Choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep and has good drainage.
- Use a high-quality potting mix with plenty of organic matter.
- Plant green bean seeds about 1 inch deep and 2 inches apart.
- Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
- Fertilize with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks.
- Harvest green beans regularly to encourage continued growth and prevent the pods from becoming tough.
By following these tips and selecting the right green bean variety for your container garden, you’ll be able to enjoy a bountiful crop of delicious, homegrown beans.