How to Grow Beans in a Grow Box

Purchase bean seeds or transplants from a local gardening center or online catalog. Recommended varieties include Blue Lake 274, Bush Kentucky Wonder, Kentucky Lake and Derby, Provider and Resistant Cherokee Wax. Do not use seeds stored longer than four years since they will not germinate. If growing from transplants, avoid those that appear pot bound, wilted or damaged.

Prepare the grow box or container. Beans need around 1 square foot depth for each plant, so choose a large box with a diameter of least 12 to 24 inches. Fill the box with potting soil and top with a layer of compost. Work the compost into the top portion of the soil until well combined.

Sow seeds one inch deep into the soil, spaced between 4 to 6 inches apart. If growing pole beans, plant four seeds around the base of a support pole such as a tepee constructed of bamboo sticks. Different varieties may require different spacing, so check your seed packet for more specific spacing recommendations. Carefully transplant into the growing container, taking care not to damage the delicate root structure.

Water seeds or transplants to a depth of 4 inches, and place the grow box in full sun exposure.

Remove small weeds as they appear. Avoid causing damage the bean plant or root system. Fertilize once a month.

Harvest bean pods once they begin to develop and are firm and crisp. Depending on weather conditions and the variety being grown, beans are usually ready for harvest within 55 to 65 days. Continue to harvest pods as they appear to keep a continuous supply of beans available. Do not wait to harvest until the pods are completely mature as this will decrease production. Be careful not to break the branches or stems of the bean plant while harvesting.