Blue Lake pole beans are a popular variety of green bean, prized for their rich flavor, stringless texture, and exceptional yields. Unlike bush beans, which are compact and self-supporting, pole beans are vining plants that can reach heights of six to eight feet. This vertical growth requires a support structure, but it allows them to produce significantly more beans in a smaller garden footprint. Their continuous production, lasting until the first frost, makes them an excellent choice for a steady supply of fresh produce.
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
Successful planting requires a location that provides full sun, meaning at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. Beans are warm-season vegetables highly sensitive to cold, so planting must occur only after the danger of the last spring frost has passed. Soil temperature is a more accurate indicator than air temperature; it should register a minimum of 60°F (16°C) for germination, with an optimal range between 70°F and 90°F (21°C–32°C). Planting in soil that is too cool or wet can cause the seeds to rot before they sprout.
The soil should be well-draining to prevent waterlogging and should have a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ideally between 6.0 and 7.0. Amending the planting area with aged compost or well-rotted manure a week or two before planting will improve soil structure and fertility. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer, as beans are legumes that fix their own nitrogen; too much nitrogen encourages lush leaf growth at the expense of bean production.
Installing Support Structures
Because Blue Lake pole beans are vigorous climbers, a sturdy support system is mandatory. This structure must be installed before or at the time of planting to avoid disturbing fragile emerging roots. Since pole beans grow six to eight feet tall, the support should be at least six feet in height. Common options include a linear trellis, constructed using wire mesh, netting, or parallel strings strung between two posts.
A classic method is the teepee, which involves tying three to five long poles or bamboo canes together at the top and spreading the bases into a circle roughly three to four feet in diameter. For a simple structure, use individual poles six to eight feet tall, ensuring the material has a rough surface to help the vines grip as they twine. Vertical support maximizes garden space and keeps the foliage drier, which improves air circulation and helps prevent common diseases.
Planting Techniques and Spacing
Direct sowing is the preferred method for Blue Lake pole beans, as the plants have delicate roots that do not tolerate transplanting well. Soaking the seeds in warm water for up to an hour immediately before planting can help speed up germination, but avoid soaking them longer, as this can cause the seeds to split or rot. Seeds should be planted one to two inches deep into the prepared, warm soil.
When planting in a row along a linear trellis, space the seeds approximately three to four inches apart. If using a teepee or individual pole, plant four to six seeds clustered around the base of each support. Once seedlings emerge, thin them to the two or three strongest plants per pole to reduce competition and improve airflow. For a prolonged, season-long harvest, practice succession planting by sowing a new batch of seeds every two to three weeks until about three months before the first expected fall frost.
Post-Planting Care and Troubleshooting
Consistent soil moisture is paramount immediately after planting until the seeds germinate, which typically takes between 7 and 16 days. After the seedlings emerge, provide about one to two inches of water per week, applied directly to the soil to keep the foliage dry and reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Watering is especially important once the plants begin to flower and form pods, as drought stress during this stage can cause the plant to drop its blossoms, resulting in low yield.
Applying a two- to three-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants helps regulate soil temperature, retain moisture, and suppress weeds. Monitor for common pests like Mexican bean beetles and aphids, which can be managed by hand-picking or by spraying them off the plant with a strong jet of water early in the day. If the vines grow taller than their support, pinch off the growing tip to encourage side branching, which may increase overall production.