Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil
Plant after the last frost when soil is warm
Sow seeds 1 to 1.5 inches deep
Space bush beans about 2 to 4 inches apart
Space pole beans about 4 to 6 inches apart
Provide a trellis, pole, or support for pole beans
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist
Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and reduce weeds
Weed carefully to avoid disturbing roots
Add compost or balanced fertilizer if needed
Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizer
Harvest bush beans when pods are firm and tender
Harvest pole beans frequently to encourage more pods
Pick beans before seeds bulge inside the pods
Check plants often for pests and disease
Rotate crops each year to reduce soil problems