How to Grow Pole or Climbing Beans

Plant the beans in a location that will provide full sun and well-draining soil during the growing season. Do not plant the beans in a location that previously grew them or other vegetables, such as tomatoes or cabbage. Avoid areas that have had potatoes and lettuces growing in them recently, too.

Work the soil in the area where the beans will be planted, using a spade. Dig to a depth of about 12 inches. Remove rocks from the bed. Work about 2 inches of compost into the area, mixing it into the existing soil well to provide a healthy medium for the beans to grow to maturity.

Build or place growing structures into the garden area. Erect long poles for the beans to grow on. Create a tepee using these wooden poles, securing them toward their centers or near their tops with twine or wire. Alternatively, make a trellis from wood scraps as a frame. Attach lattice to the frame, using a hammer and nails. Erect this along a fence or elsewhere in the garden, burying the bottom to keep it steady. Slant the trellis toward another structure to keep it more secure.

Form 2-1/2-inch hills of soil around the poles or along the ground in front of the trellis. Plant the bean seeds 2 inches deep, four to eight seeds per hill around the poles. Sow seeds in succession over the next three weeks for a more evenly distributed harvest. Keep the beans watered well, and do not let the soil dry out.

Pick the beans as soon as the pods are crisp. Eat fresh from the vine or preserve them for use during the winter. Each time a trellis or tepee of beans is completely harvested, remove the structure. Place the empty vines in the compost bin. Level out the garden area and add another 2 inches of compost.