How to Plant Pole Beans

Pole beans grow best in moist, well-drained, partly shaded sites. Amend soil with peat moss, organic matter and compost. Add mulch to the planting area before you plant to help retain moisture.

Before you plant, install bamboo poles or aluminum stakes to support beans as they grow. As the plants get larger they will wind around the poles and attach themselves with their tendrils.

Sow two to three seeds in a mound for each pole and cover each hill with a handful of mulch. Pole beans require a lot of moisture for growth. Water frequently, especially as the plants begin to flower. If you planted beans in full sun do not let the soil around it dry out or let the plant leaves wilt as this can weaken the plant's ability to yield fruit.

As plants reach the top of the pole begin to snip off the ends. Cutting the end of the plant promotes side growth and encourages plant energy to flowering and bean pod development.