Bean Seeds (Bush, Climbing, Soy)

How to Grow Beans from Seed

The essential guide to growing beans from seed; with notes on germination, cultivation, harvest and even kitchen uses.

Seeds per gram (Sds/g): 3–5
Feed Requirements: Low
Optimal Germination Temperature: 15–19 °C

Position & Soil

• Soil Type & Temperature:
• Beans prefer warm, well-drained soil with organic matter dug through.
• A minimum soil temperature of 15 °C is needed for successful germination—cold soil slows or prevents sprouting and can cause the seed to rot.
• Sun Exposure:
• Full sun is ideal.
• Fertilizer & pH:
• Beans are light feeders: too much nitrogen causes excessive leaf growth and delays pod set.
• Incorporate compost or a small amount of balanced fertilizer into the bed a couple of weeks before planting.
• Ideal soil pH is around 6.0–7.0.

Sowing & Germination

1. Sowing Times:
• Sow after the last frost once soil temperature reaches at least 15 °C.
• Bush beans, climbing beans, and runner beans can be sown at the same time; they will mature in succession.
• Soybeans (a tender bean type) also require frost-free conditions and soil temperature above 13–20 °C for best germination. In cooler regions (southern NSW, Vic, Tas), sow up to the end of December; in warmer regions sow up into January.
2. Seeding Depth & Spacing:
• Depth: 3–4 cm
• Between Seeds: 5–10 cm
• Between Rows: 60–70 cm
• Thin to 15–20 cm once seedlings are established.
• For climbing beans provide support (trellis, poles, strings) of about 2 m in height for climbing varieties.
3. Germination Tips:
• Keep the seedbed evenly moist but avoid waterlogging.
• Cold or saturated soil can delay germination and lead to poor stands due to seed rotting in the ground.

Cultivation & General Care

• Watering:
• Water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during flowering and pod formation.
• Avoid overhead watering late in the day to help reduce disease risk.
• Feeding:
• Go easy on nitrogen-rich fertilizers—excessive leaf growth reduces pod set.
• Light compost or a balanced organic feed is generally sufficient.
• Succession Planting (Bush Beans):
• Sow short rows every 2–3 weeks for a continual fresh supply.
• Bush beans often finish producing more quickly, so plan multiple sowings or sow with climbing beans (which mature later) if an extended harvest is desired.
• Support & Wind Protection (Climbing Beans):
• Climbing beans dislike strong wind; situate them in a sheltered spot or provide windbreaks.
• Ensure sturdy trellises or stakes to prevent plants from toppling.

Potential Problems

• Poor Germination / Early Rot:
• Caused by cold, wet soils or excessive irrigation.
• Pests & Diseases:
• Generally low-maintenance, but be watchful for bean rust or aphids.
• Avoid waterlogged conditions to reduce fungal issues.
• Wind Damage (Climbing Beans):
• Excess wind can batter vines; provide shelter or windbreaks.

Harvesting & Storage

• When to Harvest:
• Pick pods before the beans inside reach full size and become fibrous.
• Bush beans often mature in one main flush. Climbing beans produce over a longer period—keep harvesting to encourage more pods.
• Technique:
• Snap or cut pods from the vine/plant gently to avoid damage.
• Frequent picking extends the harvest window and keeps plants productive.
• Post-Harvest Handling:
• Use fresh pods within a few days for best taste and texture.
• Excess beans can be blanched and frozen, or used in pickles and preserves.

Additional Tips & Notes

• Bush Beans vs. Climbing Beans:
  • Bush beans produce a quick, concentrated crop.
  • Climbing beans yield over a longer period and are often considered more flavorful by many gardeners.
• Soybean-Specific Tips:
  • Sow after all danger of frost has passed.
  • Warmer soil (>20 °C) speeds up germination considerably.
• Flavour & Kitchen Use:
  • Beans are delicious raw (especially when young and tender) or lightly steamed.
  • Enhance with butter, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice—or use in stir-fries and casseroles.
• Growing notes for Runner Beans.
• Growing notes for Broad Bean.

By following these guidelines for temperature, spacing, watering, and harvesting, gardeners can enjoy a bountiful crop of fresh beans—whether bush, climbing, runner or the more specialized soybeans.