How to Grow Green Snake Beans

Construct a simple trellis by placing an 8-foot high, 2-inch by 2-inch stake approximately every 6 feet along the row intended for planting snake beans. Pound the stakes into the soil with a sledghammer until they are secure, approximately 12 to 18 inches deep.

Tie rows of heavy garden twine or bailing wire from stake to stake, creating lines of twine that run parallel to the ground every 12 inches or so. Include a row at the very top of the stakes.

Prepare the garden soil by removing large stones and other debris. Till the soil by hand or with a motorized tiller to create a bed of loose soil that is at least 12-inches deep.

Spread a 2-inch layer of a nitrogen-rich amendment, such as composted manure, over the soil. Beans and legumes require more nitrogen than other garden plants because they store it in their roots. Use a rake or hoe to work the amendment into the top 4 inches of the soil.

Poke your finger into the soil every 6 to 8 inches to make a depression for the bean seeds. Make the holes between 1- and 2-inches deep. Allow approximately 4 feet between rows.

Place the snake bean seeds into the holes and cover them loosely with soil. Water thoroughly and keep the seedlings evenly moist as they sprout.

Guide the tendrils of the beans onto the trellis if they spread on the ground. Begin harvesting snake beans when they reach 10 inches.