Choose a warm, sunny location with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight
Plant after all danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed to at least 65°F
Use well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0
Work compost or aged manure into the soil before planting
Sow seeds directly outdoors 1/2 to 1 inch deep
Space seeds 12 to 18 inches apart in rows 3 feet apart
Soak seeds overnight before planting to improve germination
Keep soil consistently moist until seeds sprout
Thin seedlings if crowded, leaving the strongest plants
Water deeply once or twice a week during dry periods
Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Fertilize lightly with a balanced fertilizer if needed
Weed regularly to reduce competition
Harvest pods when they are 2 to 4 inches long and tender
Pick pods frequently to encourage more production
Use gloves and scissors or a knife when harvesting
Watch for pests such as aphids, flea beetles, and stink bugs
Remove overgrown pods to keep plants producing
Rotate crops each year to reduce disease buildup