6. Green Beans
Slender snap beans and their Italian Romano and yellow wax cousins are all easy for beginners from seed to harvest. Bush varieties fit neatly into smaller plots while pole types need trellising but bear heavier over longer periods.
Direct sow beans 1-2 weeks after your region’s final spring frost when soil warms above 60 ̊F. Place seeds 1-2 inches deep and 2 inches apart in rows set 18-36 inches apart. Soak seeds 24 hours before planting to hasten germination.
Once sprouted, thin bush seedlings to 4-6 inches apart; pole bean hills should stand 8-12 inches apart. Mulch around plants and provide even moisture. Avoid disturbing roots when weeding.
Pick often once pods reach desired size. Push-pin thin and slow to develop seeds taste sweetest. Picking frequently keeps plants productive through summer. Let some pods mature fully on the vine for shell and dry beans.
